Definition of epochnext
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

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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

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.
Recent Examples of epoch In fact, Hegel thought that the Zeitgeist is not simply a reflection of the times but contains the seeds for overcoming a particular epoch and moving forward. Maria Balaska, Time, 20 Dec. 2025 In last year’s Cut, Emily Gould interviewed partygoers from previous epochs and turned up all sorts of outrageous anecdotes. Brittany Allen, Literary Hub, 17 Dec. 2025 And Cloud Dancer is a product of its epoch, just like every Pantone shade of the years that came before it. Anna Kaufman, USA Today, 4 Dec. 2025 According to the Geological Society, this system spans roughly 4,000 miles and began to form about 25 million years ago during the Miocene epoch. Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 25 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for epoch
Recent Examples of Synonyms for epoch
Noun
  • Rents in Boise fell at a faster rate than any other major American city in December, capping another full year in decline — and signaling a further shift toward sanity for tenants across the COVID-era boomtown.
    Mark Dee, Idaho Statesman, 14 Jan. 2026
  • And as luxury brands seek relevance beyond product in an era of tighter spending and audience fatigue, food offers a medium that feels more accessible and emotionally resonant to a broader consumer.
    Amy Francombe, Vogue, 14 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • The fan fest’s exact days of operation will be determined and announced later.
    Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star, 8 Jan. 2026
  • His days often begin before sunrise and include multiple training sessions, focusing on conditioning, endurance and strength.
    Nina Burns, CBS News, 8 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau at the time estimated that the Biden administration’s action would save families more than $10 billion a year by cutting fees from an average of $32.
    Luciana Lopez, CNN Money, 10 Jan. 2026
  • Earlier this year, the country singer shared a recipe for her mom’s famous cherry cookies just in time for Valentine’s Day.
    Heather Riske, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • The beauty industry is entering a building period, after a dip in M&A activity in 2025.
    Hikmat Mohammed, Vogue, 16 Jan. 2026
  • The Monarchs forced an errant shot early in the second period that led to a counter by Pantaleon off a pass from Delaney Hook for a 5-0 lead.
    Dan Albano, Oc Register, 16 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Nevertheless, the McAlarneys admit that keeping their children away from smartphones and limiting technology is easier said than done, especially in today’s digital age.
    Tereza Shkurtaj, PEOPLE, 11 Jan. 2026
  • From gentle cleansers to serums that tackle fine lines and wrinkles, all ages (even my 20-something self) would appreciate her picks.
    Kaitlin Clapinski, InStyle, 11 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Epoch.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/epoch. Accessed 16 Jan. 2026.

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