Definition

Relating to a part of a whole that is divided into 100 equal parts.

Example

The bank offers a 3 percent interest rate on savings accounts.

Conversation

Did you see that new savings account that offers a 3 percent interest rate?

Yeah, I heard about it! That sounds like a decent deal.

I thought so too, especially since most places only offer 1 percent.

Exactly! I’m definitely considering switching my account.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A way to express a number as a fraction of 100, often used to describe proportions or rates.

Example

The store is offering a 20 percent discount on all items this week.

Conversation

Did you know that only about percent of people actually stick to their New Year's resolutions?

Really? That sounds low!

Yeah, I was surprised too; it makes me think I should set more realistic goals.

Definition

A part of a whole expressed in hundredths, often used to describe a proportion or rate.

Example

The report states that 42 percent of the alumni contributed to the endowment.

Conversation

Did you know that only a small percent of people actually save for retirement?

Really? I thought it was more common than that.

Yeah, the report I read said it was around 20 percent.

Root Explanation

Percent is formed from "per-" (meaning through or by) and "centum" (meaning hundred). The word refers to a part of a whole expressed in relation to one hundred.

Memory Tip

Think of 'per-' meaning through and 'centum' meaning hundred — this helps you remember that percent refers to a part of something expressed in relation to a hundred.

Visually Confused Words