Synonyms: ERA, earned run average
Definition: (baseball) a measure of a pitcher's effectiveness; calculated as the average number of earned runs allowed by the pitcher for every nine innings pitched
Similar words: standard, touchstone, measure, criterion
Definition: a basis for comparison; a reference point against which other things can be evaluated
Usage: the schools comply with federal standards; they set the measure for all subsequent work
Synonyms: geological era, era
Definition: a major division of geological time; an era is usually divided into two or more periods
Similar words: geologic time, geological time
Definition: the time of the physical formation and development of the earth (especially prior to human history)
Definition: a period marked by distinctive character or reckoned from a fixed point or event
Similar words: time period, period, period of time
Definition: an amount of time
Usage: a time period of 30 years; hastened the period of time of his recovery; Picasso's blue period