timescale

noun

time·​scale ˈtīm-ˌskāl How to pronounce timescale (audio)
: an arrangement of events used as a measure of the relative or absolute duration or antiquity of a period of history or geologic or cosmic time

Examples of timescale in a Sentence

When considered on the 4.6 billion year timescale of the Earth, our lives can seem insignificant. What is the timescale for completion of the work?
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But if the gas sticks around for longer timescales, that may allow more time for giant planets to be built. Nola Taylor Tillman, Space.com, 17 Feb. 2025 Last year, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said food companies will voluntarily phase out PFAs in their packaging, although the timescale for this remains unclear. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 11 Feb. 2025 This global strontium seawater curve correlates to the geologic timescale. Bruce J. MacFadden, The Conversation, 3 Feb. 2025 Meteorologists at the National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center produce forecasts for temperatures and precipitation across the US on timescales ranging from one week to more than a year. Mary Gilbert, CNN, 2 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for timescale

Word History

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of timescale was in 1890

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Timescale.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/timescale. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

timescale

noun
time·​scale ˈtīm-ˌskāl How to pronounce timescale (audio)
: an arrangement of events used as a measure of the duration or age of a period of history or geologic or cosmic time
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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