The correct spelling of the word "contemporary" is sometimes mistakenly spelled as "cotemporary". The IPA phonetic transcription of the word is /kənˈtɛmpərɛri/. Its origin comes from the Latin word "contemporārius", which means "existing, occurring, or living at the same time". The "o" in "cotemporary" is incorrect and should be replaced with an "e". Orthographically, the correct spelling is important as it ensures correct communication and understanding of the message being conveyed.
Cotemporary, also spelled as "contemporary," is an adjective that refers to something or someone belonging to the same time period or era as another person or object. The term emphasizes the temporal proximity or coexistence of two things or individuals, highlighting their shared contemporaneity.
In the context of history, cotemporary is often used to describe events, people, or cultural phenomena that were concurrent or existed at the same time. It denotes a connection between different elements of a specific era, allowing for a comparative analysis and understanding of their relationship. For instance, historians may refer to writers and philosophers of the Enlightenment as cotemporary figures who played a significant role in shaping the intellectual landscape of the 18th century.
Furthermore, cotemporary can also denote the alignment of artistic or architectural styles, reflecting the prevailing trends and sensibilities of a particular time period. When considering the field of art, for instance, one may speak of cotemporary artists who create works that respond to or are influenced by contemporary culture or employ contemporary techniques and materials.
Overall, the term cotemporary serves as a descriptive tool that designates coexisting elements or individuals within a specific timeframe, allowing for a clearer understanding of their interconnectedness and shared cultural context.
• Being or existing at the same time.
• One who lives at the same time with another. Note.-In the spelling of these words, usage is now in favour of con rather than co.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word cotemporary is derived from the Latin word cotemporarius, which is formed by combining co- meaning together and tempus meaning time. This Latin term refers to someone or something existing or occurring at the same time as another. The word entered the English language in the late 16th century through Middle French as contemporain, and gradually evolved into its current form as cotemporary.