era

e-ra · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A long and distinct period of history with particular characteristics.

  2. 2.

    A major division of geological time.

  3. 3.

    A period of time marked by distinctive events or qualities.

Forms

plural: eras

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    end of an era — the conclusion of a significant period
  • •
    new era — the beginning of a distinctive period
  • •
    golden era — a time of great prosperity or achievement
  • •
    bygone era — a past period of time

Related words

See also: age, century, epoch, period
Synonyms: age, epoch, period, time

Etymology

From Late Latin aera ("an era, epoch"), probably from Latin aes ("copper, bronze, money"), referring to counters used for calculation.