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Silurian

Definition of Silurian

adjective

Geology
  • relating to or denoting the third period of the Palaeozoic era, between the Ordovician and Devonian periods.
  • (as noun the Silurian) the Silurian period or the system of rocks deposited during it.

The Silurian lasted from about 439 to 409 million years ago. The first true fish and land plants appeared, and the end of the period is marked by the climax of the Caledonian orogeny

Origin:

early 18th century: from Latin Silures (denoting a people of ancient SE Wales) + -ian

Silurian in other Oxford dictionaries

Definition of Silurian in the US English dictionary
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