noun

das Zeitalter, –

age · era

Eine lange Zeitspanne, die durch bestimmte Ereignisse oder Merkmale geprägt ist.

Definition & meaning

The German word "Zeitalter" refers to a specific period in history characterized by particular cultural, political, or technological features. It is commonly translated as "age," "era," or "epoch."

  1. Historical Period: A long span of time defined by a specific theme or dominant characteristic (e.g., the Ice Age or the Digital Age).
  2. General Span: It can also be used to describe a long, significant duration of time that marks a phase in development.

Grammar & Word origin

"Zeitalter" is a neuter noun (das Zeitalter). It is a compound word formed from two components:

  • Zeit: Meaning "time."
  • Alter: Meaning "age" or "era."

Together, they describe a "time-age," implying an epoch defined by its specific temporal character.

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

Antonyms: There is no direct single-word antonym for Zeitalter, as it describes a duration. However, in specific contexts, one might contrast it with:

  • Augenblick (moment)
  • Moment (moment)

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Examples

Wir leben in einem digitalen Zeitalter.noun

We live in a digital age.

In jedem neuen Zeitalter verändern sich die Erwartungen der Menschen deutlich.noun

In every new era people's expectations change significantly.

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