What does jurassic mean?
“Jurassic” primarily names the Jurassic Period, a major division of the Mesozoic Era that began roughly 201 million years ago and ended roughly 145 million years ago. It is associated especially with the dominance and diversity of dinosaurs, as well as the development of birds and the earliest mammals. As an adjective, “Jurassic” can describe fossils, landscapes, plants, animals, or anything connected with that period. In informal speech, the word has developed a figurative meaning: “jurassic” describes something so old-fashioned, slow, or technologically obsolete that it seems prehistoric. This humorous use can be affectionate or mocking depending on context. The word is normally capitalized in formal references to the geological period, while lowercase usage is especially common in figurative descriptions of outdated technology, clothing, design, or behavior. Although the geological sense is precise, the figurative sense has become familiar enough that “Jurassic” can function as a concise label for anything conspicuously behind the times.
Of or relating to the Jurassic Period, or resembling something from that period.
"The site contains Jurassic fossils preserved in limestone."
Use the capitalized form in formal geological references; lowercase is usual in informal figurative comparisons.
The Jurassic Period, the geological period of the Mesozoic Era known for the abundance and diversity of dinosaurs.
"The fossil record provides substantial evidence about life during the Jurassic."
Usually used in the singular and normally capitalized, especially when referring formally to the geological period.
An uncommon plural; the geological period itself is normally referred to in the singular as “the Jurassic.”
"The exhibition compares fossils from different jurassics."
“Jurassic” turns a period of Earth's deep history into shorthand for anything so old it looks prehistoric.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
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How jurassic is actually used
In formal geological writing, “Jurassic” is capitalized when referring to the period, its fossils, or its related organisms. Lowercase “jurassic” is common in informal figurative use for something extremely old-fashioned or outdated.