contemporary

/kənˈtɛm.pə.rə.ri/
belonging to the same time

The artist's work is contemporary with the Renaissance period.

The artist's work was created during the same time as the Renaissance.


general

belonging to the same time; modern

This contemporary design blends modern aesthetics with traditional craftsmanship.

The design combines current styles with classic techniques.

Often used to describe art, fashion, or ideas from the present or recent past.

general

a person living at the same time as another

Shakespeare was a contemporary of Christopher Marlowe.

Shakespeare and Marlowe were both active writers during the same period.

Can refer to historical figures or people in the same social circle.

Collocations

contemporary artart from the present or recent pastcontemporary musicmodern musical stylescontemporary issuescurrent social or political topics

Related Phrases

contemporary withphrase
existing or happening at the same time as

Pro Tip

Usage Tip

Use 'contemporary' to describe things or people from the same time period, not just modern items.

Word Origin

From Latin 'contemporaneus', meaning 'of the same time', from 'com-' (together) + 'tempor-' (time)

Usage Notes

Often used in discussions about art, culture, and historical periods. Can describe objects, ideas, or people.

Word Breakdown

con-
together
prefix
+
-tempor-
time
root
+
-ary
relating to
suffix
English Dictionary