PERIOD Meaning and
Definition
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Period
1. A period is a specific span of time or duration that is defined by its beginning and end. It can refer to a certain interval or segment in history, such as the Stone Age or the Middle Ages. In sports, a period marks a section of a game or competition, often divided by breaks or timeouts.
2. In grammar, a period is the punctuation mark used at the end of a sentence to indicate completion or finality. It is a small dot placed at the bottom center of the line. The period is used to separate sentences and to bring closure to a thought or statement.
3. In women's health, a period, also called menstruation, is a regular monthly discharge of blood and tissue from the lining of the uterus. It is a normal part of the menstrual cycle and typically lasts for a few days. Periods usually start during puberty and continue until menopause, with the exception of pregnancy and certain medical conditions.
4. In mathematics, a period is the length of a repeating pattern in a sequence of numbers or functions. It refers to the smallest positive value x for which a periodic function f(x) satisfies f(x + T) = f(x), where T is the period.
5. Informally, the term "period" can be used to emphasize the finality or conclusion of a statement or command. It is often used to assert authority or indicate that something is non-negotiable, for example, "The decision is final. Period."
In various contexts, the term "period" encompasses time spans, grammar, women's health, mathematics, and expressing finality.
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1. A certain duration or division of time. 2. One of the stages of a disease, as the p. of incubation, p. of convalescence, etc.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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A stated number of years; a round of time, at the end of which a thing may return to a former state; a specified portion of time; state at which anything terminates; the time occupied by the revolution of a heavenly body; end; conclusion; a complete sentence; the point indicating the end of a sentence; a series of numbers recurring, or pointed off by a dot or comma.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PERIOD
Etymology of PERIOD
The word "period" originated from the Latin word "periodus", which in turn came from the Ancient Greek word "periodos". "Periodos" is a compound word consisting of "peri", meaning "around", and "hodos", meaning "way" or "path". In Ancient Greek, it referred to a circular or recurring sequence of events. Over time, the word evolved and came to refer to a fixed and definite length of time, such as a specific stage or division of a recurring cycle or process. Eventually, "period" began to be used in various contexts, including punctuation to signify the end of a complete sentence or the menstrual cycle in women.
Idioms with the word PERIOD
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cooling-off period
A "cooling-off period" refers to a specified length of time during which people involved in a conflict or a decision-making process take a step back and refrain from immediate action or decision. It is a period of time intended to allow emotions to settle, give people a chance to reconsider their actions or choices, and potentially reach a more rational or level-headed resolution.
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grace period
A grace period is a period of time after a deadline or due date has passed, during which a late payment or action is allowed without penalty or consequence. It provides an extension or leniency before strict enforcement or punishment takes place.
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Evaluation period
The evaluation period is an idiom that refers to a specific duration of time during which something or someone is observed, assessed, or reviewed to determine their performance, suitability, or effectiveness. This period allows for a comprehensive evaluation, analysis, and judgment of the subject in question before making a final decision or taking further action.
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a honeymoon period
The idiom "a honeymoon period" refers to a period of time, typically at the beginning of a relationship, job, or new situation, where everything seems to be going well, harmonious, and enjoyable. It implies a temporary period of smooth sailing and happiness before any challenges, conflicts, or difficulties arise.
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wear on (for a period of time)
The idiom "wear on" refers to the passage of time or the progression of a situation, usually involving annoyance, frustration, or weariness accumulating over a period. It suggests that as time passes, the impact or burden of a particular experience becomes increasingly tiring, exhausting, or troublesome.
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stop off (sm place) (for a period of time)
The idiom "stop off (at a place) (for a period of time)" means to briefly visit or make a short stop at a particular location while traveling or on a journey, staying there for a specific duration before continuing with the original trip.
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while a period of time away
The idiom "while a period of time away" refers to engaging in activities or tasks to pass time in a pleasant or enjoyable manner, especially during a time of waiting or anticipation. It suggests making the most of the time by doing something pleasurable or productive.
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while a period of time away (doing sth)
The idiom "while a period of time away (doing sth)" means to spend or pass a specific duration of time engaging in a particular activity or undertaking. It suggests being immersed in or occupied by something during the stated time frame, indicating a significant investment of time and effort towards that specific task or pursuit.
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honeymoon period
The idiom "honeymoon period" refers to the initial stage of a new relationship, venture, or endeavor, characterized by love, affection, and excitement. It typically refers to a temporary period of harmony, bliss, and positive experiences before any challenges or difficulties arise.
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incapacitate someone (for something) (for a period of time)
The idiom "incapacitate someone (for something) (for a period of time)" refers to rendering someone unable to perform a particular activity or function for a specific duration. It implies temporarily disabling or hindering an individual's ability to carry out a task or participate in an event.
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incapacitate sm (for sth) (for a period of time)
The idiom "incapacitate someone (for something) (for a period of time)" means to render someone unable to function or perform a specific task or activity for a certain duration of time. It often refers to a physical or mental injury or illness that temporarily hampers someone's ability to carry out their normal duties or engage in a particular activity.
Similar spelling words for PERIOD
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