Epoch: meaning, definitions and examples
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epoch
[ˈɛpək ]
Definitions
time measurement
An epoch is a particular period of time in history or a person's life, typically one marked by notable events or particular characteristics.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The Victorian epoch in England was known for its industrial revolution.
- The discovery of fire marked a significant epoch in human history.
astronomy
In astronomy, an epoch is a moment in time used as a reference point for some time-varying astronomical quantity, such as the celestial coordinates or orbital elements of a celestial body.
Synonyms
reference point, time frame.
Examples of usage
- The orbital elements of the planets are calculated with respect to a specific epoch.
geology
In geology, an epoch is a subdivision of the geologic timescale that is longer than an age and shorter than a period.
Synonyms
geologic epoch.
Examples of usage
- The Pleistocene epoch is known for its ice ages.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'epoch' comes from the Greek word 'epokhē', meaning a fixed point in time or pause.
- It was first used in English around the 16th century to refer to notable moments in history.
Science
- In geology, an epoch is a subdivision of a period, helping scientists understand Earth's history better.
- Research shows that different epochs are often marked by significant changes in climate and the evolution of species.
History
- The transition from the Paleolithic to the Neolithic era marks an epochal change in human societies as people began farming.
- The Industrial Revolution is considered an important epoch that transformed economies from agriculture to industry.
Literature
- Epochs often inspire literary movements; for example, the Romantic period emphasized emotion and nature during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
- Famous authors often write about turning points in epochs, reflecting society's changes through their stories.
Cultural Significance
- Different cultures may have their own epochs based on significant historical events, such as the Renaissance in Europe.
- Epics and historical narratives frequently reference epochs to help readers understand the context of events.
Translations
Translations of the word "epoch" in other languages:
🇵🇹 época
🇮🇳 युग
🇩🇪 Epoche
🇮🇩 zaman
🇺🇦 епоха
🇵🇱 epoka
🇯🇵 時代
🇫🇷 époque
🇪🇸 época
🇹🇷 dönem
🇰🇷 시대
🇸🇦 عصر
🇨🇿 epocha
🇸🇰 epocha
🇨🇳 时代
🇸🇮 epoka
🇮🇸 tímabil
🇰🇿 дәуір
🇬🇪 ეპოქა
🇦🇿 dövr
🇲🇽 época