Century or Centuary

Unsure if you should write "century" or "centuary"? Here's a quick guide to help you use the correct spelling every time.

Centuary

Incorrect spelling - Centuary is a misspelling of century and has no recognized meaning in English.

"Centuary" is a common misspelling of "Century". Always use "Century" when referring to the correct word.

Century

Correct spelling - The proper way to spell this word.

Century (noun): A period of 100 years; or, in sports like cricket, a score of 100 runs by a batsman.

Definition of Century

"Century": Century (noun): A period of 100 years; or, in sports like cricket, a score of 100 runs by a batsman.

This word is commonly used in everyday conversation and writing.

Synonyms for Century

  • Hundred
  • years
  • Era
  • Period
  • Epoch

Usage Examples

"Correct:" The Roman Empire lasted for several centuries.

"Correct:" She scored a century in the cricket match yesterday.

"Correct:" The 20th century saw rapid technological progress.

"Correct:" The cathedral has stood for more than eight centuries.

"Incorrect:" He scored a centuary in the match.

"Incorrect:" The building is over a centuary old.

"Incorrect:" She studied 18th centuary literature.

"Incorrect:" The invention changed the course of the 21st centuary.

Notes:

  • "Century" is the correct and standard spelling in English.
  • "Centuary" is a common typo or misspelling and should be avoided.
  • Use "century" in all academic, professional, and everyday writing.
  • "Century" is always spelled with an i before the u → century.
  • Think of "cent" (meaning 100) + "ury" to remember the spelling.

Summary

Century is the correct spelling for a period of 100 years. Centuary is a misspelling and should not be used in any context.