Anthropocene image (png)

Anthropocene

ˈanTHrəpəˌsēn

Noun

  • The current geological age, viewed as the period during which human activity has been the dominant influence on climate and the environment.

Adjective

  • Relating to or denoting the current geological age, viewed as the period during which human activity has been the dominant influence on climate and the environment.
Close
Email

Get a new word in your inbox every day.

By subscribing you are agreeing to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

Example Sentences

“The Anthropocene is marked by a dramatic increase in human activity and the subsequent impact on the planet.”

“The calendar might say 2022, but to geologists, we’re living in the Anthropocene.”

“Human activity is the main hallmark of the Anthropocene era.”

Word Origin

Greek, early 21st century

Why this word?

“Anthropocene,” from the Greek “anthropo” for “man,” and “cene” for “new,” was coined in the 1980s by biologist Eugene Stoermer and popularized in 2000 by atmospheric chemist and Nobel laureate Paul Crutzen. In 2016, a research group known as the Anthropocene Working Group determined that the Anthropocene Epoch started in 1950, coinciding with the Great Acceleration, an age marked by the continuous and dramatic surge of human activity.

  • More brands you’ll love

    Elevate Your Everyday

    More brands you’ll love

    Elevate Your Everyday

    Subscribe to Better Report to receive tips and tricks that will save you money, maximize your time, and improve your life.

    Subscribe to Better Report
    By clicking “Subscribe” you’re agreeing to Better Report Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Learn a new word Heteroclite

ˈhedərəˌklīt