Siècle (en. Century)

/sjɛkl/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
noun
A century is a period of 100 years.
The 20th century was marked by numerous technological changes.
Le XXe siècle a été marqué par de nombreux changements technologiques.
In history, a century can also denote an era or a stylistic period.
The art of the Age of Enlightenment influenced many artists.
L'art du siècle des Lumières a influencé de nombreux artistes.

Etymology

The word 'century' comes from the Latin 'saeculum' which means 'generation' or 'period of time.'

Common Phrases and Expressions

Age of Enlightenment
Period of the 18th century marked by an intellectual and philosophical momentum.
siècle des Lumières
across the centuries
Over a long period, often used to discuss the evolution of an idea or a culture.
à travers les siècles
twentieth century
Specifically refers to the years 1900 to 1999.
vingtième siècle

Related Words

era
Historical period characterized by specific events or trends.
époque
generation
A group of individuals living at the same time.
génération
millennium
Period of a thousand years.
millénaire

Slang Meanings

Expresses longevity or a very long duration.
It's been a century since I last saw you!
Ça fait un siècle que je ne t'ai pas vu !
Used to describe something very old.
This old house looks like it's at least a century old.
Cette vieille maison a l'air d'avoir au moins un siècle.