Contiguous
/kənˈtɪɡjuəs/
Definitions
2 meaningsSharing an edge or boundary; adjacent; next or together in sequence.
/kənˈtɪɡjuəs/
Sharing a common border; touching.
The countries share a contiguous border, allowing for easy trade.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're building with LEGOs. If the blocks are right next to each other, without any gaps, they're contiguous! Just like when states share a border, or when your fingers touch.
👶 For kids: When two things are next to each other and touching, like if you put two blocks side by side!
More Examples
The cells are arranged in a contiguous manner, forming a solid tissue.
The contiguous fields of crops stretched as far as the eye could see.
How It's Used
"The contiguous states of the United States are those that share a border."
"The memory allocated for the array is contiguous."
Forming an unbroken whole; connected or linked together in sequence.
/kənˈtɪɡjuəs/
Connected or linked together in an uninterrupted sequence.
The artist created a contiguous timeline of historical events.
💡 Simply: Imagine a story where one event leads seamlessly to the next. That's a contiguous story! It's like the different chapters fit together perfectly.
👶 For kids: When something goes on without any breaks, like when you're drawing a long line without lifting your crayon!
More Examples
The contiguous flow of traffic on the highway moved at a steady pace.
The novel had a contiguous plot that kept the reader engaged.
How It's Used
"The artist presented a contiguous narrative through her paintings."
From Latin *continguus* meaning 'touching, bordering', from *contingere* 'to be in contact with'.
The word 'contiguous' has been used since the 17th century, primarily in scientific and geographical contexts.
Memory tip
Think of 'touch' - contiguous things are touching each other.
Practice
Word Origin
Root: contingere