1. of, relating to, or denoting the geological era from about 66 million years ago to the present, characterized by the dominance and evolution of mammals and flowering plants
Usage: geology; also spelled Cainozoic

1. the Cenozoic era or the rocks and deposits formed during this time period
Usage: geology; also spelled Cainozoic

Examples

• The Cenozoic era began after the extinction of the dinosaurs.
• Mammals diversified rapidly during the Cenozoic period.
• Geologists study Cenozoic rock formations to understand climate change.
• The Cenozoic is divided into three periods: the Paleogene, Neogene, and Quaternary.
• Humans first appeared during the Cenozoic era.
• Flowering plants became dominant in Cenozoic ecosystems.