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
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Recent Examples of epochHer thigh-high vinyl boots didn’t have the same aesthetic of the epoch.—Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 25 Jan. 2026 His body was laid in state not far from the Spanish Steps — thousands queued over the two days to bid their farewells to the designer, the first, and in many ways the only, Italian to break into French haute couture back in Fifties, a postwar epoch when things like that were thought impossible.—Guy Martin, Forbes.com, 24 Jan. 2026 Del Toro provided rich historical context for the film, describing Stevens’ path through several epochs of filmmaking.—Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 19 Jan. 2026 Climate operates on the scale of decades, centuries, millennia, and epochs.—New Atlas, 13 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for epoch
Particularly in the era of LLM chatbots, which will flatter us and every one of our thoughts in conversation, self-inflicting this type of harsh criticism upon ourselves and our cherished ideas may seem especially unnerving.
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Big Think,
Big Think,
10 Feb. 2026
Clayton Kershaw, a Hall of Fame lock in any era, will debut on the 2031 ballot.
This long-term approach allowed scientists to account for changes in coffee and tea consumption over time, while monitoring for both clinical dementia diagnoses and subtle shifts in cognitive function.
—
Khloe Quill,
FOXNews.com,
10 Feb. 2026
Over time, Warren began to incorporate other martial arts disciplines like Judo and Aikido to teach his students to be well-rounded enough to react to any situation.
If passed, the bill would allow residential ratepayers to be placed on budget billing plans on July 1, and utilities will be prohibited from disconnecting low-income customers’ services during periods with extreme heat warnings.
—
Maya Wilkins,
Chicago Tribune,
5 Feb. 2026
The bracelet wasn’t the only piece of period jewelry Robbie wore on the London carpet.
For families This family-friendly resort offers a Kids For All Seasons program, family movie nights, kite-making activity, and more—plus complimentary kids’ menu meals for children ages five and under.
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Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
15 Feb. 2026
Sensory-inclusive shows offer accommodations for a neurodivergent audience of all ages.