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Pleistocene - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

The Pleistocene is a geological epoch that lasted from about 2.6 million to 11,700 years ago, characterized by repeated glaciations and the presence of early humans and large mammals like mammoths.

pleistocene

/ˈplaɪstəˌsin/ /ˈplaɪstəʊsiːn/

Definition:

Relating to the geological epoch marked by repeated glaciations, ending around 11,700 years ago.

Synonyms:

Ice Age, glacial epoch, Quaternary

Part of Speech:

adjective, noun

Antonyms:

Holocene, modern era

Common Collocations:

Pleistocene epoch, Pleistocene fauna, Pleistocene glaciers

Derivatives:

Pleistocenic, Pleistocenian

Usage Tips:

Use "Pleistocene" to describe geological features or species from that epoch; often capitalized as a proper noun.

Common Phrases:

Pleistocene megafauna, Pleistocene climate, Pleistocene deposits

Etymology:

From Greek "pleistos" (most) and "kainos" (new), referring to the most recent Ice Age period.

Examples:

  • 1. The Pleistocene epoch saw the rise of early humans.
  • 2. Woolly mammoths roamed during the Pleistocene period.
  • 3. Scientists study fossils from the Pleistocene to understand climate change.
  • 4. The Pleistocene ended with the last Ice Age's retreat.

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