1900s
Definition
- Noun:
- The decade from 1900 to 1909: The term "1900s" specifically refers to the first decade of the twentieth century, encompassing the years 1900 through 1909.
Usage
- The word "1900s" is used as a plural noun to denote that specific ten-year period. It is important to distinguish it from the broader century (the 1900s, meaning the entire 20th century from 1900-1999). When used without further qualification, it typically means the first decade.
- Example:
Examples
- Noun:
- The invention of the airplane by the Wright brothers was a defining moment of the 1900s.
- Many technological advancements, like early automobiles, became more common during the 1900s.
Advanced Usage
- "The early 1900s": This phrase can sometimes refer to the first decade, but it can also vaguely refer to the first few decades of the 20th century (e.g., 1900-1910 or 1900-1920). Context is key.
- In the early 1900s, many families did not have telephones.
Variants and Related Words
- 1900 (noun): The specific year marking the beginning of the century and the decade.
- Twentieth century (noun): The period of one hundred years from 1901 to 2000. Often colloquially referred to as "the 1900s," which is a broader and distinct usage from the specific decade.
- Naughts (noun, informal): A rarely used term for the first decade of a century (e.g., the 1900s, 2000s).
Synonyms
- The first decade of the twentieth century: A more formal and precise synonym.
- The aughts (noun, chiefly US, historical): An informal term for the decade 1900-1909.
Notes on Meaning
- Primary Meaning: The decade from 1900 to 1909.
- Common Confusion: The term is often confused with references to the entire 20th century (e.g., "in the 1900s" meaning 1900-1999). For clarity, specify "the first decade of the 1900s" or "the 1900-1909 period."
Noun
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the decade from 1900 to 1909
