CENTURY

Definition of CENTURY

CENTURY Noun

Century is a noun that denotes a period of one hundred years, commonly used to divide and categorize historical, cultural, and chronological timelines. Here are some key aspects of the term “century“:

Measurement of Time: A century is a unit of time measurement equivalent to one hundred years. It serves as a convenient way to organize and reference extended periods of time in human history, allowing for easier categorization and analysis of events, developments, and cultural phenomena.

Historical Context: In historical contexts, centuries are often used to delineate distinct eras or epochs, providing a framework for understanding the evolution of societies, civilizations, and global events over extended periods. For example, the 20th century is frequently associated with significant historical events such as World Wars, the Cold War, and the rise of globalization.

Cultural Significance: Centuries hold cultural significance as markers of time and milestones in human civilization. They are often celebrated or commemorated in various ways, such as centennial anniversaries, which mark one hundred years since a particular event or occurrence. Centuries may also be associated with specific cultural or artistic movements, scientific discoveries, or technological advancements.

Future Projections: While centuries primarily serve as retrospective markers in historical analysis, they can also be used to project future developments or anticipate long-term trends. Forecasting and planning based on centuries may involve extrapolating current trends, examining historical patterns, and considering potential societal shifts over extended periods.

In summary, a century represents a significant span of time encompassing one hundred years, serving as a fundamental unit of measurement in historical, cultural, and chronological contexts. It provides a framework for organizing and analyzing historical events, cultural developments, and societal changes over extended periods, shaping our understanding of the past, present, and future.

Examples of CENTURY in a sentence

  • The 20th century witnessed unprecedented advancements in technology and science.
  • Many significant historical events, such as World War I and World War II, unfolded during the past century.
  • The 21st century has seen rapid globalization and interconnectedness like never before.
  • The invention of the internet revolutionized communication in the latter half of the 20th century.
  • Albert Einstein’s theory of relativity reshaped our understanding of the universe in the early 20th century.
  • The 19th century marked the beginning of the industrial revolution, transforming economies and societies worldwide.
  • The 18th century is often referred to as the Age of Enlightenment due to its emphasis on reason and science.
  • Leonardo da Vinci, a polymath of the 15th century, made pioneering contributions to various fields, including art, science, and engineering.

Origin of CENTURY

The term “century” originated from the Middle English word “centurie,” which is derived from the Old French “centurie,” and earlier from the Latin “centuria,” referring to a group of one hundred (centum). Here’s the breakdown:

  • Centuria (Latin): A group of one hundred.
  • Centurie (Old French): Derived from the Latin “centuria.”
  • Century (Middle English): Derived from the Old French “centurie.”

Therefore, “century” originally denoted a period of one hundred years, commonly used in historical and calendrical contexts to organize time. Over time, its usage expanded to represent a significant span of time marked by notable events, developments, or cultural shifts. In modern usage, a century typically refers to a period of one hundred years, with specific centuries often named or numbered to differentiate them in historical discourse.

Synonyms

  • Age
  • Epoch
  • Era
  • Period
  • Cycle
  • Timeframe
  • Stage
  • Phase

Antonyms

  • Instant
  • Moment
  • Short-term
  • Brief period
  • Transient
  • Ephemeral
  • Fleeting
  • Immediate

Related

  • Millennium
  • Decade
  • Generation
  • Quarter-century
  • Biennium
  • Interval
  • Chronology
  • Duration

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