any distinct time period in a sequence of events; we are in a transitional stage in which many former ideas must be revised or rejected

[ Syn: stage ]

(physical chemistry) a distinct state of matter in a system; matter that is identical in chemical composition and physical state and separated from other material by the phase boundary; the reaction occurs in the liquid phase of the system

[ Syn: form ]

a particular point in the time of a cycle; measured from some arbitrary zero and expressed as an angle

[ Syn: phase angle ]

(astronomy) the particular appearance of a body's state of illumination (especially one of the recurring shapes of the part of Earth's moon that is illuminated by the sun); the full phase of the moon'

arrange in phases or stages; phase a withdrawal'

adjust so as to be in a synchronized condition; he phased the intake with the output of the machine'