century

word

/ˈsɛntʃɝi/
SEN-chuh-ree
/sˈɛntʃəɹi/
SEN-chuh-ree

Definition

A century is a period of 100 years. It can also mean one of the numbered periods in history, such as the 18th century or the 21st century.

Usage & Nuances

Used most often in history, dates, and long time spans. Be careful with numbering: the years 1901–2000 are the 20th century, not the 19th. In sports, especially cricket, 'a century' also means a score of 100.

Example Sentences

A century has 100 years.

basic

My town is more than a century old.

basic

This building was made in the last century.

basic

That tradition has been in our family for over a century.

natural

It feels like a century since we last talked.

natural

People have argued about that for centuries.

natural