The term "contemporary" refers to something that is of the present time or era. It can be used in various contexts:
1. Art and Design: Contemporary art refers to the art of the present, usually defined as the art created since the 1960s. It encompasses a wide range of styles and media and is characterized by its diversity and often reflects current social and political issues.
2. Fashion: Contemporary fashion refers to current trends and styles in the fashion industry. It is what is in style now and often reflects the latest designs, materials, and cultural influences.
3. Music: Contemporary music refers to the music of the present time, which can include genres such as pop, rock, hip-hop, and electronic dance music, among others.
4. Literature: Contemporary literature refers to the works of authors who are currently writing or who have written recently. This includes modern novelists, poets, and playwrights.
5. Society and Culture: When used in this context, contemporary refers to the current state of society, its norms, values, and cultural practices.
6. Science and Technology: Contemporary science and technology refer to the advancements and discoveries of the present time, which are constantly evolving.
7. Archaeology and History: In archaeology, "contemporary" might refer to artifacts or structures from the same time period as those being studied.
The term is often used to contrast with "historical" or "traditional," emphasizing the modern aspect of the subject at hand.