Decade Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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decade
[ˈdɛkeɪd ]
Definition
time period
A decade is a period of ten years. It is commonly used to refer to a specific period of time, such as the 1980s or the 2000s.
Synonyms
decemvirate, decennium, decuple.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| decade |
Refers to a period of ten years and is often used in everyday language and historical or social contexts.
|
| decennium |
A synonym for 'decade' but used more in formal writing or contexts emphasizing the passage of time.
|
| decemvirate |
Refers specifically to a group of ten people, usually in an administrative or governing capacity, and is often used in historical or formal contexts.
|
| decuple |
Describes something that is ten times as much or methods involving multiplication by ten, primarily used in mathematical or specific scientific contexts.
|
Examples of usage
- The 1990s was a vibrant decade for pop culture.
- She has been working in the company for over a decade now.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word 'decade' comes from the Greek word 'dekas,' meaning ten.
- In ancient Rome, ten-year periods were used in planning and governance, showing its longstanding importance.
- The concept of measuring time in decades became popular in the 20th century, especially in cultural discussions.
Cultural Significance
- The 1920s are often called the 'Roaring Twenties,' known for its cultural revolution and economic change.
- Each decade often has distinct fashion trends and music styles, making them unique in history.
- Decades are frequently referenced in celebrations and retrospectives, such as 'best of the decade' lists.
Pop Culture
- Movies like 'Dirty Dancing' (1987) and 'Back to the Future' (1985) capture the essence of their respective decades.
- Television shows often reflect the social attitudes and trends of the decade they air in.
- Music genres often emerge or evolve by decades, like grunge music in the 1990s or disco in the 1970s.
Science and Technology
- Each decade sees advancements; for example, the 2000s saw the rise of smartphones and social media.
- Scientific milestones are often categorized by decades, highlighting significant progress in fields like medicine and technology.
- Climate change reports often analyze data in decade-long intervals to observe trends and patterns.
Literature
- Literary works can often be seen as reflections of their decades, with themes influenced by prevailing societal issues.
- The decade from 1900 to 1910 was crucial for modernism in literature, marking a shift in style and theme.
- Authors like F. Scott Fitzgerald and Virginia Woolf were influential figures of their respective decades in the early 20th century.
Origin of 'decade'
The word 'decade' originated from the late Middle English word 'decaade', which came from the Old French word 'decade', and ultimately from the Latin word 'decadem'. The use of 'decade' to refer to a period of ten years has been common since the 15th century.
See also: decadent.