cent

UK: sɛnt | US: sɛnt

Definition

  1. n. a monetary unit equal to 1/100 of a basic unit of currency (e.g., dollar, euro).

  2. n. a coin representing this value.

Structure
cent <hundred>
Etymology

The word "cent" derives from the Latin centum, meaning "hundred." It entered English via Old French cent in the late Middle Ages, retaining its core numerical meaning. The modern usage reflects its role in currency divisions (e.g., 100 cents = 1 dollar), directly tied to the Latin root’s quantitative logic.

Examples

  1. The candy costs fifty cents.

  2. She saved every cent she earned.

  3. The price increased by ten cents.

  4. He donated a few cents to the charity.

  5. Do you have change for a dollar in cents?