continuum

noun

Definition of continuumnext
as in spectrum
formal a range or series of things that are slightly different from each other and that exist between two different possibilities His motives for volunteering lie somewhere on the continuum between charitable and self-serving. a continuum of temperatures ranging from very cold to very hot

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of continuum Stuart Bloom’s futile efforts to right the space-time continuum will continue. — Rick Porter, HollywoodReporter, 14 Aug. 2026 These friezes reflected the aspirations of the nation’s leaders to place America on the continuum of great civilizations. — Jennifer Tucker, The Conversation, 7 Aug. 2026 Jenna Bush Hager and Sheinelle Jones fall on opposing ends of the leg-shaving continuum. — Amaris Encinas, USA Today, 6 Aug. 2026 Skinner said the tribe is building a continuum of care, which will include a variety of treatment options, not just inpatient care. — Sarah Liese, Los Angeles Times, 3 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for continuum
Recent Examples of Synonyms for continuum
  1. spectrum
  2. scale
Noun
  • Brian Romero, a DSA member and incoming state assemblymember who has worked with the chapter’s tech working group in the past, framed the debate as a complex, fast-moving issue that factions across the political spectrum are having.
    — J.D. Capelouto, semafor.com, 21 Oct. 2026
  • Cranberry & Jalapeño Chicken Meatballs TJ’s has a whole flavor spectrum of these spongy, scrotal meatballs.
    — Alex Beggs, Bon Appetit Magazine, 21 Oct. 2026
Definition of spectrum
Noun
  • Purges of officials -- including some viewed as his political rivals -- have been carried out on a scale that led critics to argue the campaign was also used to consolidate his power.
    — KANIS LEUNG, Arkansas Online, 27 Oct. 2026
  • China’s faster development cycles and greater capacity to move from laboratory to regulator to patient at scale mean that in some fields, Chinese entry will sharpen pressure on pricing, timelines, and standards.
    — Ruby Wang, semafor.com, 27 Oct. 2026
Definition of scale

Browse Nearby Words

continuousness
continuum
contort
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Continuum.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/continuum. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on continuum

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about continuum

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