Definition

Not belonging to the same time period; not modern or current.

Example

The museum features noncontemporary art that dates back to the 18th century.

Conversation

Have you seen that new art exhibit downtown?

No, I haven't. What's it like?

It's really interesting, but some pieces are quite noncontemporary.

That sounds cool! I love seeing how different styles contrast with each other.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Noncontemporary → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "contemporary" (from Latin "contemporarius", where "con-" means together and "tempus" means time). The word "noncontemporary" means not existing or occurring at the same time as something else.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('non-') and 'together in time' ('contemporary') to remember that 'noncontemporary' refers to things that do not exist at the same time.

Visually Confused Words