hundredth - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
hundredth Word Meanings
- 1/100 of something
- The ordinal number after ninety-ninth
- A position in a list or ranking.
hundredth Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
hundredth Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈhʌndrɛdθ/
US
/ˈhʌndrɛθ/
hundredth Word Etymology
Root decomposition: hundred + -th (suffix indicating order). Historical origin: from Old English 'hundred' derived from Proto-Germanic and Latin, then evolved through Middle English. Memory image: Imagine a giant cake cut into a hundred slices, where each slice represents one hundredth, showing how it divides something whole into many parts.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Hundredth is a flexible term used as an adjective, a noun, and an ordinal. As a fraction it means one part in a hundred (1/100). As an ordinal, the hundredth denotes the position after the ninety-ninth, often seen in lists, rankings, anniversaries, or steps in a sequence. It can also describe a very small precision, such as a hundredth of a liter or a hundredth of a second. The word is formed from 'hundred' plus the suffix '-th' to indicate order. In everyday English, hundredth tends to appear in technical, scientific, or mathematical contexts, as well as formal occasions like the hundredth birthday.
Usage Reminders
- Know when to use as fraction vs ordinal
- Remember the -th suffix marks order, not quantity
- Use hundredth in precise measurements or formal contexts
- Keep clear the difference between one hundredth and one percent
- Pair with a noun to specify what is a hundredth part or position
- Avoid overusing in casual speech
Common Misconceptions
- Mistaking hundredth for a percentage, especially when one writes 1/100 instead of 1%
- Mixing up ordinal positions: thinking hundredth means 'the hundred farthest' rather than the 100th
- Confusing hundredth with hundred or hundreds (plural)
- Using hundredth as a standalone count rather than a position or part
- Overlooking that some contexts prefer 'the hundredth' with a definite article or possessive (the hundredth's impact)
Thinking Differences
Learners of English often default to counting sequences in their native way, so they may treat hundredth as simply a number rather than a position or fraction. English also discriminates clearly between 1/100 and 1% in common contexts, which some learners miss when translating directly.
Learning Tips
- Create flashcards for each usage: 1/100, 100th, and centennial anniversaries
- Practice with measurements: a hundredth of a liter, a hundredth of a second
- Use the suffix -th to form ordinals correctly
- Compare with other ordinals (first, second) to see pattern changes
- Read lists or tables where items are labeled by position
- Avoid mixing with percent; remember common phrases
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of 'hundredth'?
A.One part of a hundred equal parts
B.A type of currency
C.The card game played with a deck
D.A measurement of time
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence correctly uses the word 'hundredth'?
A.Her birthday is on the hundredth day of the year.
B.This cake has a hundredth of chocolate chips in it.
C.I ran my hundredth mile last month.
D.He bought a hundredth of a book online.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'hundredth'?
A.Fiftieth
B.Percent
C.Thousandth
D.Tenth
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'hundredth'?
A.Middle
B.Last
C.First
D.Quarter
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where 'hundredth' is used?
A.I remember the first time I tried sushi.
B.We celebrated her birthday over a hundred friends attended.
C.He completed his hundredth puzzle during the pandemic.
D.That painting is the last one in the series.
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