continuum

[ kuhn-tin-yoo-uhm ]

noun

, plural con·tin·u·a [k, uh, n-, tin, -yoo-, uh].

1. a continuous extent, series, or whole.
2. Mathematics.
   1. a set of elements such that between any two of them there is a third element.
   2. the set of all real numbers.
   3. any compact, connected set containing at least two elements.

continuum

/ kənˈtɪnjʊəm /

noun

1. a continuous series or whole, no part of which is perceptibly different from the adjacent parts

Word History and Origins

Origin of continuum¹

1640–50; < Latin, noun use of neuter of continuus continuous

Word History and Origins

Origin of continuum¹

C17: from Latin, neuter of continuus continuous

Example Sentences

One can certainly discuss this limited series divorced from other critically acclaimed shows, but it’s more interesting to view it as part of a continuum that speaks to our present, whether thematically or parabolically.

From Salon

It left me kind of feeling like the continuum of life continues.

From Salon

Is there any country in history where such talk has not led to widespread state atrocities, along a continuum that ends in Rwanda?

From Salon

It’s an act of observation, rather than an indulgence in longing — an exercise in remembering, an effort to place things within a continuum.

From Los Angeles Times

Further along the same continuum is when one’s commanding speech actually provokes ire, confusion, and fragility in the listener who cannot reconcile reality with entrenched stereotype beliefs.

From Salon

Related Words

• continuity