Algonkian

[ al-gong-kee-uhn ]

noun

, plural Al·gon·ki·ans, (especially collectively) Al·gon·ki·an

1. Geology. former name of the Proterozoic.
2. Algonquian.

adjective

1. Geology. formerly, Proterozoic.
2. Algonquian.

Algonkian

/ ælˈɡɒŋkɪən /

noun

1. an obsolete term for Proterozoic
2. a variant of Algonquian

Word History and Origins

Origin of Algonkian¹

First recorded in 1805–10 Algonkian fordefs 1, 3; 1885–90 Algonkian fordefs 2, 4

Example Sentences

Two important ones, however—namely, Archean and Algonkian—are of American birth.

From Project Gutenberg

As shown in Figure 207, a strong unconformity (nm´, Fig. 207) parts the schists and the Algonkian.

From Project Gutenberg

These diverse forms indicate that before the Algonkian had closed, life was abundant and had widely differentiated.

From Project Gutenberg

The vast length of Algonkian time is shown by the thickness of its marine deposits and by the cycles of erosion which it includes.

From Project Gutenberg

The pottery of the Iroquoian and Algonkian tribes of the north-east was, as a rule, rather crude and undeveloped.

From Project Gutenberg