Modernity: meaning, definitions and examples

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modernity

 

[ ˌmɒdəˈnɪti ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

in society

The quality or condition of being modern. The term is often used to describe the current era as compared to past historical periods. Modernity is characterized by technological advancements, social changes, and cultural shifts.

Synonyms

advancement, contemporary, progressiveness.

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Word Description / Examples
modernity

Used to describe the quality or condition of being modern, often applied to the current era characterized by technological advancements and changing social norms.

  • The modernity of the city is reflected in its architecture and public transportation system
  • Her views on gender roles reflect a strong sense of modernity
contemporary

Often used to describe something that belongs to the same period as something else, especially in terms of art, culture, and literature. It can also refer to people living at the same time.

  • His contemporary art pieces are displayed in the museum
  • She enjoys reading contemporary novels
progressiveness

Used to highlight forward-thinking attitudes, particularly in social, political, or educational contexts. This word often carries a positive connotation of wanting to improve and move beyond traditional limits.

  • The school is known for its progressiveness in education policies
  • Her progressiveness truly transformed the company's work culture
advancement

Typically used when discussing progress or development, especially in technology, science, or social structures.

  • The advancement of technology has significantly changed how we communicate
  • Medical advancements are saving lives every day

Examples of usage

  • Many people associate modernity with the rise of industrialization and urbanization.
  • In the context of art, modernity often refers to the rejection of traditional styles and the embrace of experimentation.
  • Globalization has been a driving force behind the spread of modernity across different cultures.

Translations

Translations of the word "modernity" in other languages:

🇵🇹 modernidade

🇮🇳 आधुनिकता

🇩🇪 Moderne

🇮🇩 modernitas

🇺🇦 сучасність

🇵🇱 nowoczesność

🇯🇵 現代性 (gendai-sei)

🇫🇷 modernité

🇪🇸 modernidad

🇹🇷 modernite

🇰🇷 현대성 (hyundaeseong)

🇸🇦 حداثة

🇨🇿 modernita

🇸🇰 modernita

🇨🇳 现代性 (xiàndài xìng)

🇸🇮 modernost

🇮🇸 nútíma

🇰🇿 заманауилық

🇬🇪 თანამედროვე

🇦🇿 müasirlik

🇲🇽 modernidad

Etymology

The term 'modernity' originated in the late 19th century as societies around the world experienced rapid industrialization and urbanization. It reflects a shift towards new ways of thinking, living, and organizing society. Modernity has been a subject of philosophical, sociological, and cultural debates, with scholars exploring its implications on identity, politics, and the environment.

See also: modern, modernism, modernization, modernize, modernized, modernizer, postmodernist.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,290, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.