Contemporary
/kənˈtɛmpərəri/
Definitions
2 meaningsExisting or happening in the same period.
/kənˈtɛmpərəri/
Living or occurring at the same time
The museum showcased contemporary artists from around the world.
💡 Simply: Imagine you and your best friend are both in the same grade at school. That means you are contemporary students! It means you're around the same age and are experiencing the same things right now.
👶 For kids: Happening at the same time as something else.
More Examples
Her research focused on contemporary issues in education.
We are living in a contemporary society facing new challenges.
How It's Used
"Shakespeare and Cervantes were contemporary writers."
"The exhibition featured contemporary art and sculpture."
A person or thing belonging to the same time period.
/kənˈtɛmpərəri/
A person or thing living or existing at the same time as another
The author's contemporaries often influenced his work.
💡 Simply: Think about your classmates. They are your contemporaries! It means you are all the same age and going through school together at the same time.
👶 For kids: Someone or something that lives at the same time as you.
More Examples
The film featured interviews with her contemporaries.
His contemporaries in the field greatly admired his work.
How It's Used
"She is a contemporary of the famous composer."
"The exhibition brought together works by various contemporary artists."
Idioms & expressions
contemporary art
Art produced at the present time or in recent times.
"The museum showcases an impressive collection of contemporary art."
contemporary music
Music that is currently being created.
"Contemporary music reflects the current trends and styles of the time."
From Late Latin *contemporarius* meaning 'living at the same time', from *con-* 'with' + *tempus* 'time'.
The word 'contemporary' has been used since the 16th century, initially to describe individuals living at the same time.
Memory tip
Think of 'tempo' which relates to time. Contemporary things exist at the same tempo or time.
Word Origin
"living at the same time"