Era: meaning, definitions and examples
⏳
era
[ˈɪrə ]
Definitions
in history
A period of time marked by distinctive character, events, or practices. An era is a span of time characterized by particular circumstances, events, or personages. It is often associated with a particular historical period, such as the Industrial Era or the Victorian Era.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| era |
Used to denote a long and distinct period of history with a particular feature or characteristic.
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| period |
A length of time that is meaningful in a particular context, which is generally shorter and less distinct than an era or age.
|
| age |
Refers to a distinct period in the history of humanity, often linked to culture, technology, or significant events.
|
| epoch |
Used to describe a significant period in history or a person's life, typically marked by notable events or changes.
|
Examples of usage
- The Renaissance era was known for its cultural and artistic achievements.
- The era of the Roman Empire left a lasting impact on Western civilization.
in fashion
A particular period in history or a distinctive style or fashion. It is often used to describe a trend or style that was popular during a specific time period.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| era |
Used to describe a significant period in history or in someone's life, usually marked by particular events, characteristics, or changes.
|
| fashion |
Describes popular styles or trends in clothing, accessories, and sometimes behavior, which are prevailing at a particular time.
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| style |
Refers to a particular way of doing or expressing something, which can pertain to clothing, art, writing, or any other form of expression.
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| trend |
Indicates the general direction in which something is developing or changing, often used in the context of social, economic, or fashion movements.
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Examples of usage
- The era of flapper dresses and jazz music in the 1920s.
- The grunge era of the 1990s brought a rebellious fashion sense.
in geology
A major division of geological time, typically longer than a period and shorter than an eon. Eras are defined by significant changes in Earth's geology and life forms.
Synonyms
epoch, geological period.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| era |
This is the same as the first 'era'.
|
| geological period |
Use 'geological period' specifically for discussing divisions of geological time, often marked by notable changes in Earth's biological and geological conditions.
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| epoch |
Use 'epoch' in a more formal and scientific context to describe a notable period in history or the geological time scale.
|
Examples of usage
- The Mesozoic Era is known for the dominance of dinosaurs.
- The Cenozoic Era is the current era, characterized by the rise of mammals.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term comes from the Latin word 'aera', meaning a specific period marked by events or changes.
- Initially, it signified an event that started a new time, later expanding to define any noteworthy period.
- The use of 'era' in English dates back to the late 14th century, showing its deep historical roots.
Historical Significance
- The Renaissance in Europe marked an era of renewed interest in art, science, and culture after the Middle Ages.
- The Industrial Era transformed economies from agrarian to industrial, significantly impacting society and the environment.
- Geologists identify different eras in Earth's history, such as the Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and Cenozoic, each noted for unique life forms.
Cultural Impact
- Different eras in music, like the Baroque and Romantic periods, greatly influence composers and styles today.
- Fashion trends often signify an era, such as the Roaring Twenties, which is remembered for jazz, flapper dresses, and speakeasies.
- Cinema has also evolved through distinct film eras, from silent films to the contemporary digital era.
Scientific Applications
- In geology, an era represents significant intervals of time marked by major changes in Earth's geology or climate.
- Dating fossils often involves identifying the eras they belong to, helping scientists understand evolutionary timelines.
- Astronomers study cosmic eras to understand the development of the universe, from the Big Bang to the present.
Philosophical Concept
- The concept of an era often reflects societal values; for example, the Enlightenment Era emphasized reason and scientific exploration.
- In philosophy, discussions about what defines an era can lead to debates about progress and morality in human history.
- Many believe that recognizing different eras helps humanity learn from past mistakes and successes.
Translations
Translations of the word "era" in other languages:
🇵🇹 era
🇮🇳 युग (Yug)
🇩🇪 Ära
🇮🇩 era
🇺🇦 ера
🇵🇱 era
🇯🇵 時代 (じだい, jidai)
🇫🇷 ère
🇪🇸 era
🇹🇷 devir
- çağ
- dönem
🇰🇷 시대 (sidae)
🇸🇦 عصر ('asr)
🇨🇿 éra
🇸🇰 éra
🇨🇳 时代 (shídài)
🇸🇮 era
🇮🇸 tímabil
🇰🇿 дәуір (däwir)
🇬🇪 ეპოქა (epoka)
🇦🇿 era
🇲🇽 era