Permian

adjective

Perm·​ian ˈpər-mē-ən How to pronounce Permian (audio) ˈper- How to pronounce Permian (audio)
: of, relating to, or being the last period of the Paleozoic era or the corresponding system of rocks see Geologic Time Table
Permian noun

Examples of Permian in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But the push to bolster fossil fuel production is heightening concerns among oil field workers and first responders about the mounting dangers facing workers and Permian residents. — Saul Elbein, The Hill, 3 Mar. 2025 Guadalupe National Park has eight of the ten highest peaks in Texas, the world’s most extensive Permian fossil reef, and 80 hiking trails through unique geological formations, like thousand-foot cliffs and rocks with dark water-ripple streaks. — Alex Temblador, Outside Online, 23 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Perm, former province in eastern Russia

First Known Use

1841, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Permian was in 1841

Browse Nearby Words

Permiak
Permian
per mill
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Permian.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Permian. Accessed 10 Apr. 2025.

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Kids Definition

Permian

adjective
Perm·​ian ˈpər-mē-ən How to pronounce Permian (audio)
: of, relating to, or being the latest period of the Paleozoic era of geological history or the corresponding system of rocks see geologic time
Permian noun

More from Merriam-Webster on Permian

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about Permian

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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