Epoch
/ˈiː.pɒk/noun
A distinct period of time marked by particular events, developments, or characteristics.
Did you know?In Greek, *epochē* originally meant a “halt” or “suspension,” and philosophers used it for suspending judgment — so an epoch is literally a moment when time, like belief, stands still.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἐποχή (epochḗ)
“A stopping, pause, or suspension; later, a point from which time is reckoned.”
Late Latin
Latin
epocha
“A fixed point in time from which dates are calculated.”
Middle French
French
époque
“A point or period in time.”
16th Century
English
epoch
“A fixed point in time used as a starting point for chronology.”
Modern English
English
epoch
“A distinct period of time marked by notable events or characteristics.”