phase

¹phase

noun \ˈfāz\

Definition of PHASE

1

: a particular appearance or state in a regularly recurring cycle of changes <phases of the moon>

2

a : a distinguishable part in a course, development, or cycle <the early phases of her career> b : an aspect or part (as of a problem) under consideration

3

: the point or stage in a period of uniform circular motion, harmonic motion, or the periodic changes of any magnitude varying according to a simple harmonic law to which the rotation, oscillation, or variation has advanced from its standard position or assumed instant of starting

4

: a homogeneous, physically distinct, and mechanically separable portion of matter present in a nonhomogeneous physicochemical system

5

: an individual or subgroup distinguishably different in appearance or behavior from the norm of the group to which it belongs; also : the distinguishing peculiarity

— pha·sic \ˈfā-zik\ adjective

— in phase

: in a synchronized or correlated manner

— out of phase

: in an unsynchronized manner : not in correlation

Examples of PHASE

1. The project will be done in three phases.
2. He's in the final phase of treatment now.
3. The building project marks a new phase in the town's development.
4. He has been throwing tantrums a lot, but the doctor says it's just a phase.
5. a calendar based on the phases of the moon

Origin of PHASE

New Latin phasis, from Greek, appearance of a star, phase of the moon, from phainein to show (middle voice, to appear) — more at fancy

First Known Use: circa 1750

Related to PHASE

Synonyms: angle, facet, hand, aspect, side

Related Words: air, appearance, character, color, complexion, condition, face, look, semblance, shape, state, visage; period, stage, step; outlook, perspective, position, posture, shoes, slant, stance, standpoint, view, viewpoint; interpretation, reading, rendering, translation, version; article, case, component, count, detail, dimension, element, factor, instance, item, matter, part, particular, point, regard, respect

see all synonyms and antonyms

[+]more[-]hide