Cainozoic

/keɪnəˈzoʊɪk/ adjective

Definition

Relating to the Cenozoic Era, the most recent geological period spanning roughly 66 million years to the present, characterized by mammals and modern life.

Etymology

From Greek 'kainos' (new) plus 'zoe' (life or animal). The term was coined by English geologist John Phillips in 1841 to describe the era of 'new life' that followed the extinction of dinosaurs.

Kelly Says

The Cainozoic is sometimes called 'The Age of Mammals' because once dinosaurs went extinct, our furry ancestors got their chance to thrive—we're living in the Cainozoic right now!

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