n. 1.(physical chemistry) a distinct state of matter in a system 2.any distinct time period in a sequence of events 3.a particular point in the time of a cycle 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) phase v. 1.arrange in phases or stages 2.adjust so as to be in a synchronized condition
