Definition

Proper noun 1. A geologic period and system: The Triassic Period is the first period of the Mesozoic Era, spanning from approximately 252 to 201 million years ago. It is characterized by the recovery of life after the Permian-Triassic extinction event, the diversification of reptiles, and the appearance of the first dinosaurs and mammals.

Usage

The term "Triassic Period" is used as a proper noun to refer to a specific, defined interval of geologic time. * The supercontinent Pangaea began to break apart during the Triassic Period. * Fossils from the Triassic Period show the early evolution of archosaurs. * The boundary between the Triassic Period and the Jurassic Period is marked by another major extinction event.

Advanced Usage

• In scientific contexts: The term is often used with related geological and paleontological terminology.
  • The Triassic Period is subdivided into the Early, Middle, and Late Triassic epochs.
  • The climate of the Triassic Period was generally hot and dry.
• As an adjective ("Triassic"): The adjectival form is commonly used to describe things from this period.
  • Triassic rocks are found on every continent.
  • The study focuses on Triassic ecosystems.

Variants and Related Words

• Triassic (adjective): Of, relating to, or denoting the Triassic Period.
  • The Triassic landscape was dominated by conifers and ferns.
• Mesozoic Era: The larger geologic era that contains the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous Periods.
• Permian-Triassic extinction event: The mass extinction that occurred immediately before the start of the Triassic Period.

Synonyms

• Triassic (when used as a noun in context, e.g., "the Triassic")
• Triassic System (refers specifically to the sequence of rock strata deposited during this period)

Related Phrases and Contexts

• Post-Triassic: Referring to the time after the Triassic Period.
• Mid-Triassic: Referring to the middle part of the Triassic Period.
• End-Triassic extinction: The mass extinction event that marks the end of the Triassic Period.

Noun

1. from 230 million to 190 million years ago; dinosaurs, marine reptiles; volcanic activity