period

Definition

A length of time.

Etymology

From Middle English periode, from Middle French periode, from Medieval Latin periodus, from Ancient Greek περίοδος (períodos, “circuit, orbit, a recurring interval of time, path around”), from περι- (peri-, “around”) + ὁδός (hodós, “way”). Displaced native Middle English tide (“interval, period, season”), from Old English tīd (“time, period, season”), as well as Middle English elde (“age, period”), from Old English ieldu (“age, period of time”).

Example Sentences

• "There was a period of confusion following the announcement."
• "You'll be on probation for a six-month period."
• "Philip Miles, defending, said: "This was a single instance, there was no allegation of continuing behaviour over a long period of time.""

Related Words