Permian

 
Pronunciation: /ˈpəːmɪən/

adjective

Geology
  • relating to or denoting the last period of the Palaeozoic era, between the Carboniferous and Triassic periods. See also Permo–Triassic.
  • (as noun the Permian) the Permian period or the system of rocks deposited during it.
  • The Permian lasted from about 290 to 245 million years ago. The climate was hot and dry in many parts of the world during this period, which saw the extinction of many marine animals, including trilobites, and the proliferation of reptiles

Origin:

late 16th century: from the name of the Russian province Perm, from the extensive development of such strata there