tertiary
UK: ˈtɜː.ʃər.i | US: ˈtɜːr.ʃi.er.i
adj. relating to or constituting the third level, stage, or order
adj. (geology) relating to the Tertiary period of the Cenozoic era
adj. (chemistry) denoting a carbon atom bonded to three other carbon atoms
tertiary = tert<third> + ary<adjective suffix>
- tert (from Latin tertius, meaning "third")
- ary (a suffix forming adjectives, often indicating relation or belonging, from Latin -arius)
Etymology Origin:
The word tertiary traces back to Latin tertius (third), reflecting its core meaning of "third in order." The suffix -ary was adopted from Latin to form adjectives, solidifying its role in describing hierarchical or sequential positions (e.g., primary, secondary, tertiary). In geology, it specifically references the third major era of the Cenozoic period. The term’s logical progression—from numerical order to specialized scientific usage—showcases its adaptability across disciplines.
The tertiary sector of the economy includes services like education and healthcare.
Fossils from the Tertiary period provide insights into early mammal evolution.
In organic chemistry, a tertiary carbon is bonded to three other carbons.
She focused on tertiary education reforms during her tenure.
The report emphasized tertiary effects of climate change on coastal communities.