timescale

noun

time·​scale ˈtīm-ˌskāl 

: 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

Conversely, the timescale of stable, dependable support from business typically lags government. —Mung Chiang, Forbes.com, 28 May 2025

Such precision enables the observation of dynamic solar processes on timescales as short as 20 seconds, according to the statement. —Samantha Mathewson, Space.com, 25 May 2025

Eventually, on timescales so long humanity will never witness them, the universe will fade into darkness. —Sharmila Kuthunur, Space.com, 15 May 2025

The findings offer a compelling response to Crick’s dilemma, reconciling the discordant timescales to explain how ephemeral molecules maintain memories that last a lifetime. —Ajdina Halilovic, Quanta Magazine, 7 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for timescale

• abigail
• cottontail
• countervail
• fingernail
• martingale
• mesoscale
• microscale
• monorail
• nanoscale
• ponytail
• swallowtail
• wensleydale

Kids Definition

timescale

noun

time·​scale ˈtīm-ˌskāl 

: an arrangement of events used as a measure of the duration or age of a period of history or geologic or cosmic time