Centumvirate meaning

A centumvirate is a group of one hundred individuals.


Centumvirate definitions

Word backwards etarivmutnec
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division cen-tum-vi-rate
Plural The plural of the word centumvirate is centumvirates.
Total letters 12
Vogais (4) e,u,i,a
Consonants (6) c,n,t,m,v,r

The Centumvirate was an ancient Roman council of one hundred members, typically chosen from the wealthiest and most influential citizens of society. The term "centumvirate" is derived from the Latin words centum, meaning one hundred, and vir, meaning man.

The centumviri were responsible for various judicial and administrative duties within the Roman Republic, including presiding over legal cases and serving as guardians of Roman civil law. They were divided into four distinct groups, each with its own set of responsibilities.

Origins of the Centumvirate

The Centumvirate was established in the 5th century BC and was originally tasked with overseeing the distribution of public lands. Over time, their role expanded to include serving as judges in civil disputes and managing the legal and financial affairs of Roman citizens.

Role of the Centumviri

The centumviri were divided into four distinct boards: the quatuorviri capitales, responsible for criminal cases; the decemviri stlitibus iudicandis, in charge of civil cases; the quinqdecimviri sacris faciundis, responsible for religious matters; and the duoviri perduellionis, tasked with matters of treason.

Members of the Centumvirate were chosen through a combination of election and appointment, with vacancies filled by co-optation. Membership in the centumviri was highly prestigious and sought after, as it provided individuals with significant influence and power within Roman society.

Decline of the Centumvirate

With the transition from the Roman Republic to the Roman Empire, the role and significance of the Centumvirate diminished. The judicial and administrative functions once performed by the centumviri were gradually absorbed by other governmental bodies, rendering the council obsolete.

Legacy of the Centumvirate

Despite its eventual decline, the Centumvirate played a crucial role in shaping the legal and social institutions of ancient Rome. The council's influence can still be seen in the development of Roman civil law and the establishment of judicial precedent that would endure for centuries to come.

In conclusion, the Centumvirate was an essential institution in ancient Roman society, comprised of influential individuals tasked with upholding the rule of law and administering justice. Although its role waned over time, the legacy of the centumviri lived on in the legal traditions of Rome and beyond.


Centumvirate Examples

  1. The centumvirate was responsible for overseeing the city's infrastructure projects.
  2. In ancient Rome, the centumvirate was a council of one hundred men.
  3. The centumvirate held significant power in the decision-making process of the government.
  4. Members of the centumvirate were chosen for their wisdom and leadership abilities.
  5. The centumvirate was tasked with upholding the laws and maintaining order in the city.
  6. During times of crisis, the centumvirate would convene to address urgent matters.
  7. The centumvirate played a crucial role in the governance of the ancient civilization.
  8. Historians have studied the workings of the centumvirate to better understand ancient political systems.
  9. The authority of the centumvirate extended across various aspects of society.
  10. The centumvirate's decisions had far-reaching implications for the population as a whole.


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  • Updated 01/07/2024 - 20:42:29