QUARTER CENTURY Meaning and
Definition
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Quarter century refers to a period of twenty-five years. The term "quarter" signifies a fraction, specifically one-fourth, while "century" denotes a hundred-year period. Hence, when combined, "quarter century" represents one-fourth of a century or a span of twenty-five years.
The concept of a quarter century is often used to discuss or measure long-term timeframes, and it holds significance in various contexts, such as historical events, personal milestones, or the analysis of societal changes. For example, when talking about historical periods, one might refer to the "quarter century" following a particular event or the end of a war. It acts as a convenient marker for understanding the impact and evolution that occurred within that defined time span.
Moreover, on a personal level, an individual might utilize the term "quarter century" to denote their twenty-fifth birthday or anniversary. It symbolizes the completion of a significant portion of their life's journey, prompting reflection on achievements, growth, or setting new goals for the next phase.
Overall, the term "quarter century" serves as a concise and versatile descriptor of a period of twenty-five years. Its usage can vary, providing a means of measuring or expressing time in different contexts, ranging from historical epochs to personal landmarks.
Etymology of QUARTER CENTURY
The term "quarter century" is derived from two separate words: "quarter" and "century".
The word "quarter" originated from the Old French word "quartier" meaning "one-fourth, quarter". It can be traced back to the Latin word "quartarius", which referred to a fourth part or a quarter. The word "century" comes from the Latin word "centuria", which originally had a military connotation, representing a group of 100 soldiers.
When combined, "quarter century" refers to a period of 25 years, highlighting the idea of one-fourth of a century.
