Phase - Definition

n 1: 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: phase, stage]
2: (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: phase, form]
3: a particular point in the time of a cycle; measured from some
arbitrary zero and expressed as an angle [syn: phase,
phase angle]
4: (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"
v 1: arrange in phases or stages; "phase a withdrawal"
2: adjust so as to be in a synchronized condition; "he phased
the intake with the output of the machine"