phase Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun any distinct time period in a sequence of events
    stage.
    • we are in a transitional stage in which many former ideas must be revised or rejected
  2. noun (physical chemistry) a distinct state of matter in a system; matter that is identical in chemical composition and physical state and separated from other material by the phase boundary
    form.
    • the reaction occurs in the liquid phase of the system
  3. noun a particular point in the time of a cycle; measured from some arbitrary zero and expressed as an angle
    phase angle.
  4. noun (astronomy) the particular appearance of a body's state of illumination (especially one of the recurring shapes of the part of Earth's moon that is illuminated by the sun)
    • the full phase of the moon
  5. verb arrange in phases or stages
    • phase a withdrawal
  6. verb adjust so as to be in a synchronized condition
    • he phased the intake with the output of the machine

WordNet

Phase noun
Etymology
NL. phasis, Gr. , fr. to make to appear: cf. F. phase. See Phenomenon, Phantom, and Emphasis.
Wordforms
plural Phases
Definitions
  1. That which is exhibited to the eye; the appearance which anything manifests, especially any one among different and varying appearances of the same object.
  2. Any appearance or aspect of an object of mental apprehension or view; as, the problem has many phases.
  3. (Astron.) A particular appearance or state in a regularly recurring cycle of changes with respect to quantity of illumination or form of enlightened disk; as, the phases of the moon or planets. See Illust. under Moon.
  4. (Physics) Any one point or portion in a recurring series of changes, as in the changes of motion of one of the particles constituting a wave or vibration; one portion of a series of such changes, in distinction from a contrasted portion, as the portion on one side of a position of equilibrium, in contrast with that on the opposite side.

Webster 1913