世紀末(せいきまつ)

せいきまつ
noun
end of the century; fin de siècle
culturetime-general
1. end of the century, fin de siècle
The closing period of a century, especially associated with cultural decadence, anxiety, or upheaval. Often evokes a mood of decline or apocalyptic atmosphere.
世紀末(せいきまつ)の雰囲気(ふんいき)がある。
It has a fin-de-siècle atmosphere.
The internet became widespread at the end of the 20th century.
Decadent art was in vogue at the end of the century, and anxiety pervaded society.

Usage

Beyond its literal meaning, 世紀末(せいきまつ) often carries connotations of chaos, decadence, or an apocalyptic mood. In Japanese pop culture, it is strongly associated with the manga/anime Fist of the North Star (北斗(ほくと)の拳(けん)), whose post-apocalyptic setting is described as 世紀末(せいきまつ).

Forms

世紀(せいき) (century) + 末(まつ) (end)

Common collocations