geochronology

1 of 2

noun

1
: the chronology of the past as indicated by geologic data
2
: the study of geochronology

geochronological

2 of 2

adjective

geo·​chro·​no·​log·​i·​cal
: of or relating to geochronology
geochronologically adverb

Examples of geochronology in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Noun
The field of geochronology is dedicated to dating Earth’s geologic materials. — New York Times, 20 July 2021 Baleka and her colleagues used a variety of techniques to study the rate at which the species' ancestors became dwarves, including paleogenetics, geochronology and other dating methods. — Jeanne Timmons New York Times, Star Tribune, 17 July 2021 Then again, the best samples for geochronology may not be best for preserving signs of life. — Corey S. Powell, Discover Magazine, 18 Feb. 2021 Herries, who specializes in geochronology, says the Drimolen site is a bit different. — Brian Handwerk, Smithsonian Magazine, 2 Apr. 2020

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

ge- + chronological, chronologic

First Known Use

Noun

1893, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of geochronology was in 1893

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Cite this Entry

“Geochronology.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/geochronology. Accessed 5 Oct. 2026.

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