Synonyms for

Cretaceous

Verb / krɪˈteɪʃɪs / Another word for cretaceous — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Cretaceous refers to the last period of the Mesozoic era, from about 145 to 66 million years ago.

Synonyms & similar words

cretaceousperiod cretaceous Mesozoic Jurassic Triassic Geologic Geological Prehistoric Antediluvian Primeval Primitive Antique Old Ancient Archaic Outmoded Obsolete Extinct Forgotten Lost Vanished

Synonyms by register

Formal

chalky calcareous limy

Antonyms

modern recent new contemporary current present-day

Common collocations

  • Cretaceous period
  • Cretaceous rocks
  • Cretaceous fossils
  • Cretaceous strata
  • Cretaceous system
  • Cretaceous deposits
  • Cretaceous age

Word family

adjective Cretaceous

Usage note

Primarily used in geology and paleontology to refer to the last period of the Mesozoic Era. It is not typically used in general conversation.

Example sentences

  1. The cretaceous period was a fascinating time for the evolution of life on Earth.
  2. Cretaceous rocks often contain fossils of dinosaurs and other prehistoric animals.
  3. The cretaceous seas were home to many different types of marine creatures.
  4. Scientists study the cretaceous period to learn more about the history of the Earth.
  5. The cretaceous climate was much warmer than it is today.

Quotes

  • "The Cretaceous Period was the last great period of the dinosaur age." - Michael Crichton
  • "The Cretaceous period was the last great gasp of the dinosaur world." - Peter Brannen
  • "The Cretaceous-Tertiary event wiped out the dinosaurs." - Richard Cowen

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