timescale

noun

time·​scale ˈtīm-ˌskāl How to pronounce timescale (audio)
: an arrangement of events used as a measure of the relative or absolute duration or antiquity of a period of history or geologic or cosmic time

Examples of timescale in a Sentence

When considered on the 4.6 billion year timescale of the Earth, our lives can seem insignificant. What is the timescale for completion of the work?
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
On the smallest scales, structure gets washed out, while on larger scales, structure takes a long time to form, as larger scales plus the finite speed of gravity translate into longer timescales for collapse. Big Think, 3 Mar. 2026 Because the reproductive rate of common pests such as the mosquito is so high, this can manifest in a relatively short timescale in the real world. Srishti Gupta, Interesting Engineering, 27 Feb. 2026 The result is that background stars aligned with the caustic curve will periodically appear to flash, as their light is amplified on timescales of several years corresponding to the orbital period of the black holes. Keith Cooper, Space.com, 24 Feb. 2026 The change in relegation format permitted some latitude in timescale. Megan Feringa, New York Times, 30 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for timescale

Word History

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of timescale was in 1890

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Timescale.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/timescale. Accessed 3 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

timescale

noun
time·​scale ˈtīm-ˌskāl How to pronounce timescale (audio)
: an arrangement of events used as a measure of the duration or age of a period of history or geologic or cosmic time
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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