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Ordovician - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

The Ordovician is a geologic period that occurred about 485 to 443 million years ago, following the Cambrian. It is known for diverse marine life and the first vertebrates.

ordovician

/ˌɔːrdəˈvɪʃən/ /ˌɔːdəʊˈvɪʃən/

Definition:

Relating to the geological period between the Cambrian and Silurian, around 485 to 443 million years ago.

Synonyms:

Paleozoic, ancient, prehistoric

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

modern, recent

Common Collocations:

Ordovician period, Ordovician rocks, Ordovician fossils

Derivatives:

Ordovicianism (rare), Ordovician-age

Usage Tips:

Use "Ordovician" to describe rocks, fossils, or events from that specific geologic era.

Common Phrases:

Ordovician explosion, Ordovician sea, Ordovician extinction

Etymology:

Named after the Celtic tribe "Ordovices," by geologist Charles Lapworth in 1879.

Examples:

  • 1. The Ordovician period saw diverse marine life flourish.
  • 2. Fossils from the Ordovician era are often found in limestone.
  • 3. Scientists study Ordovician rocks to understand Earth's ancient climate.
  • 4. The Ordovician ended with a major extinction event.

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