centennial

UK: sɛnˈtɛnɪəl | US: sɛnˈtɛniəl

Definition

  1. n. a hundredth anniversary or its celebration

  2. adj. relating to a period of 100 years

Structure
cent <100>enn <year>ial <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "centennial" combines Latin-derived morphemes:

  • "cent" from Latin centum (meaning "100"),
  • "enn" from Latin annus (meaning "year"),
  • and the suffix "-ial," which forms adjectives.
    The term emerged in the early 19th century, specifically to mark 100-year anniversaries, blending numerical precision with temporal significance. Its structure mirrors other Latin-based terms like "biennial" (every two years) or "millennial" (pertaining to 1000 years).
Examples

  1. The town celebrated its centennial with a parade and fireworks.

  2. The centennial edition of the book includes a new foreword.

  3. She inherited a centennial pocket watch from her great-grandfather.

  4. The museum’s centennial exhibition showcased artifacts from 1923.

  5. Planning for the university’s centennial began five years in advance.