Carboniferous
/ˌkɑːr.bəˈnɪf.ər.əs/noun
Relating to a geological period or rock system characterized by extensive coal deposits, especially between about 359 and 299 million years ago.
Did you know?The Carboniferous atmosphere likely contained far more oxygen than today, helping giant arthropods such as the enormous dragonfly-like Meganeura thrive.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*bher-
“To carry, bear, or bring”
Ancient Latin
Latin
ferre
“To bear or carry”
Classical Latin
Latin
carbō
“Coal or charcoal”
Medieval Latin
Latin
-ferus / -fer
“Bearing or carrying; a combining element used in scientific compounds”
19th Century
New Latin
Carboniferous
“Coal-bearing; the name given to coal-rich geological strata and their period”
Modern English
English
Carboniferous
“Relating to the Carboniferous geological period or its rocks”