Dark Ages
noun
the period in European history from about a.d. 476 to about 1000.
the whole of the Middle Ages, from about a.d. 476 to the Renaissance.
(often lowercase)
a period or stage marked by repressiveness, a lack of enlightenment or advanced knowledge, etc.
Origin of Dark Ages
First recorded in 1720–30
British Dictionary definitions for dark ages
Dark Ages
pl n the Dark Ages European history
the period from about the late 5th century ad to about 1000 ad, once considered an unenlightened period
(occasionally) the whole medieval period
Cultural definitions for dark ages
Dark Ages
A term sometimes applied to the early Middle Ages, the first few centuries after the Fall of Rome. The term suggests prevailing ignorance and barbarism, but there were forces for culture and enlightenment throughout the period.