Era

Definition

Era refers to a distinct period of time in history or in a person's life, characterized by particular events, developments, or conditions. It can also signify a system of chronology dating from a particular event.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɛrə/
• Respelling: AIR-uh

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɪərə/ or /ˈɛrə/
• Respelling: EER-uh or AIR-uh

The pronunciation of "era" varies slightly between American and British English, particularly in the first syllable.

Etymology

The word "era" originates from the Late Latin word "aera," which referred to a number or an account. It was later used in Medieval Latin to denote a chronological epoch, and it came into English in the 17th century with the meaning of a significant period in history.

Derivatives

• Epoch (noun)
• Eratic (adjective)
• Eran (adjective, historical)
• Sub-era (noun)
• Post-era (noun)

Synonyms

• Period
• Age
• Epoch

Antonyms

• Moment
• Instant
• Flash

Usage

The word "era" is often used to describe significant periods in history, such as the Victorian Era or the Digital Era. It is also applied to notable phases in an individual's life or career, as well as in science to define geological time periods.

Related Terms

• Epoch: A period of time in history or a person's life, typically one marked by notable events or particular characteristics.
• Generation: All of the people born and living at about the same time, regarded collectively.
• Milestone: A significant event or point in development or history.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A distinct period of time in history or a person’s life: Refers to a significant duration marked by particular events or characteristics.
  • Example: "The Industrial Revolution marked the beginning of a new era in manufacturing."
• A system of chronology dating from a particular noteworthy event: Refers to a chronological system that starts from a significant point in history.
  • Example: "The Common Era (CE) is a calendar era based on the Gregorian calendar."