1. an advanced stage of human social and cultural development and organization
2. a particular society at a particular time and place
3. the comfort and convenience of modern life

Examples

• Ancient Greek civilization made important contributions to philosophy and science.
• The rise of civilization began with the development of agriculture.
• Maya civilization flourished in Central America for over a thousand years.
• After weeks in the wilderness, they were eager to return to civilization.
• The museum displays artifacts from various world civilizations.
• Modern civilization depends heavily on technology and communication.
• Historians study how different civilizations developed writing systems.