Carboniferous

Pronunciation
/kar-bon-IF-er-us/
Category
Geology
Singular
Carboniferous
Plural
Carboniferous

Definition

A geological period spanning from about 359 to 299 million years ago, characterized by extensive coal deposits and the evolution of diverse insect life.

Etymology

From Latin 'carbon' meaning 'coal' and 'ferre' meaning 'to bear'.

Example

The Carboniferous period saw the diversification of insects, including giant dragonflies and millipedes.

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