information-age
UK[ˌɪnfəˈmeɪʃən eɪdʒ]US[ˌɪnfərˈmeɪʃən eɪdʒ]
n
The current historical era characterized by the dominant role of information creation, processing, and distribution, especially through digital technology.
Morpheme Breakdown
information
age
information
age
Etymology
The compound term "information-age" is a modern formation that combines two words of ancient lineage to define a contemporary epoch. "Information" originates from the Latin verb informare, meaning "to shape, form, or train," which itself derives from in- (into) and forma (form, shape). This reflects the original concept of giving form to the mind through instruction. "Age" traces back to Latin aetas, relating to lifetime or a long period. The logic of the compound is direct: it names an era (age) defined by its central commodity and driving force—information. The term captures the societal shift where the creation and management of knowledge, facilitated by computers and telecommunications, became the principal economic and cultural activity, succeeding the industrial age.
Analysis
Structure: information + age
- information: From Latin informationem (a concept, idea), from informare (to shape, form, train). Functions as the modifying noun specifying the type of era.
- age: From Old French aage, eage, from Latin aetas (age, lifetime). Functions as the head noun meaning a distinct period of history.
Examples
We are living in the information-age, where data is more valuable than oil.
The transition to the information-age has revolutionized how we work and communicate.
Libraries have adapted to the information-age by providing digital archives and online resources.