The continuum is a range or spectrum that gradually changes. At no point are the parts of a continuum clearly distinct from each other, but they do have distinctly defined extremes.

The most famous example of the continuum comes from Einstein’s theory of gravity, which he called a warping of the spacetime continuum. But there are many other examples of the concept, ranging from musical styles to human lifespans to genetic mutations.

For instance, parenting styles tend to fall on a continuum that ranges from strict disciplining to a more child centered approach. Also, gender is a continuum that stretches from very masculine to very feminine traits and behaviors. Gender and genetics are only two points on a very long, continuous curve.

These examples have been programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word ‘continuum.’ Any opinions in these examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Related words: interval, series, scale, spectrum, line, sequence, gradient, pattern, progression, evolution, progressions, elongation, gradualism, gradualist, interminable, unbroken, incessant, elongation, infinitude, invariable, infinite, indefinite.

The term ‘continuum’ can refer to:

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