Definition

Very important or significant, often marking a major change or event in history.

Example

The invention of the internet was an epochal moment in communication.

Conversation

Did you hear about that epochal event last night?

Yeah, it was all over the news!

I can't believe we witnessed such an epochal moment in history.

Definitely! It's something we'll talk about for years to come.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Epochal → It is formed from "epoch" (from Greek "epokhē", meaning a fixed point in time or a period) and the suffix "-al" (meaning pertaining to). The word "epochal" refers to something that is significant or important in a particular period of time.

Memory Tip

Think of an 'epoch' as a significant period in time, and the '-al' means pertaining to it — so 'epochal' describes something that is important to that time.

Visually Confused Words