Epoch: meaning, definitions and examples

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epoch

 

[ˈɛpək ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

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

age, era, period.

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.
Context #2 | Noun

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.
Context #3 | Noun

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

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,354 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.