Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
dark age
noun
/dɑrk eɪdʒ/
Definition
A historical period characterized by a lack of cultural and economic progress, often marked by societal decay and a decline in learning.
Examples
- The fall of the Roman Empire is often referred to as the beginning of the Dark Ages in Europe.
- During the Dark Ages, many classical texts were lost or forgotten.
- Some historians argue that the term ‘dark age’ is misleading, as it implies a complete absence of progress.
Meaning
The term ‘dark age’ usually refers to a time in history when there was little recorded knowledge or where society faced significant cultural stagnation.
Synonyms
- medieval period
- middle ages
- age of ignorance
- time of decline
