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.
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.