Synonyms of epoch

epoch

noun

ˈe-pək 

as in era

an extent of time associated with a particular person or thing

Sir Isaac Newton is usually credited with establishing the epoch of modern science

Synonyms & Similar Words

• era
• day
• time
• period
• age
• year
• generation
• cycle
• date
• span
• space
• while
• bit
• vintage
• spell
• stretch

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun epoch differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of epoch are age, era, and period. While all these words mean "a division of time," epoch applies to a period begun or set off by some significant or striking quality, change, or series of events.

the steam engine marked a new epoch in industry

When is it sensible to use age instead of epoch?

The meanings of age and epoch largely overlap; however, age is used frequently of a fairly definite period dominated by a prominent figure or feature.

the age of Samuel Johnson

When might era be a better fit than epoch?

Although the words era and epoch have much in common, era suggests a period of history marked by a new or distinct order of things.

the era of global communications

In what contexts can period take the place of epoch?

While in some cases nearly identical to epoch, period may designate an extent of time of any length.

periods of economic prosperity

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of epoch

According to the researchers, this model predicted up to 70 percent more massive galaxy clusters in the Universe’s early epochs due to stronger gravitational forces. —Chris Young, Interesting Engineering, 3 Oct. 2025

Cardinale erupted onto the international scene in the early ’60s and became, along with Sophia Loren and Anna Magnani, one of the most prominent Italian stars of her epoch. —Jordan Mintzer, HollywoodReporter, 23 Sep. 2025

Seen through that prism, the Mistral earns its place in history as a remarkable bridge between two epic epochs. —Basem Wasef, Robb Report, 20 Sep. 2025

During this epoch, expanses of coastal plains revealed themselves as sea levels dropped by around 330 feet. —Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 18 Sep. 2025

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