centurion

UK: senˈtjʊə.ri.ən | US: senˈtʊr.i.ən

Definition
  1. n. a commander of a century (a unit of 100 soldiers) in the ancient Roman army

  2. n. (figuratively) a leader or veteran with authoritative experience

Structure
cent <one hundred>urion <noun suffix denoting agent or role>
Etymology

Derived from Latin centurio, from centum (meaning "one hundred") + -urion (a suffix indicating a person’s role or function). The term originally referred to an officer commanding 100 soldiers in the Roman legion. Over time, it evolved to symbolize leadership and experience, retaining its historical military connotation while occasionally being used metaphorically.

Examples
  1. The centurion led his troops with unwavering discipline.

  2. In the film, the grizzled centurion served as a mentor to young recruits.

  3. The archaeological dig uncovered the tomb of a Roman centurion.

  4. His leadership style earned him the nickname "the modern centurion."

  5. The centurion’s helmet was displayed in the museum’s ancient warfare exhibit.