epoch

Epoch is defined as an important period in history or an era.

(noun)

See epoch in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

the beginning of a new and important period in the history of anything: the first earth satellite marked a new epoch in the study of the universe
a period of time considered in terms of noteworthy and characteristic events, developments, persons, etc.: an epoch of social revolution
a point in time or a precise date
Astron. the time at which observations are made, as of the positions of planets or stars
Geol. a subdivision of a period in geologic time corresponding to the rock strata of a series ()

Origin: ML epocha < Gr epochē, a check, cessation < epechein, to hold in, check < epi-, upon + echein, to hold: see scheme

Related Forms:

See epoch in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

a. A particular period of history, especially one considered remarkable or noteworthy.
b. A notable event that marks the beginning of such a period. See Synonyms at period.
A unit of geologic time that is a division of a period.
Astronomy An instant in time that is arbitrarily selected as a point of reference.

Origin:

Origin: Medieval Latin epocha, measure of time

Origin: , from Greek epokhē, a point in time; see segh- in Indo-European roots

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