1. The fifth and final epoch of the Neogene Period, lasting from approximately 5.3 to 2.6 million years ago, characterized by cooling climate and the emergence of grasslands.
Usage: geology; often capitalized

1. Of, relating to, or denoting the Pliocene epoch or its rocks and fossils.
Usage: geology; often capitalized

Examples

• The Pliocene epoch saw the development of many modern mammal species.
• Pliocene fossils have been discovered in sedimentary layers across North America.
• During the Pliocene, global temperatures were warmer than today.
• Pliocene rocks in this region contain abundant remains of early hominins.
• The transition from the Pliocene to the Pleistocene marked a significant climate shift.
• Geologists study Pliocene deposits to understand ancient climate patterns.