phase phase /ˈfeɪz/

noun

1. () Any distinct time period in a sequence of events  ( phase , stage )
   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
   we are in a transitional stage in which many former ideas must be revised or rejected
   
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  ( form , phase )
   (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
   the reaction occurs in the liquid phase of the system
   
   
3. () A particular point in the time of a cycle; measured from some arbitrary zero and expressed as an angle  ( phase angle , phase )
   a particular point in the time of a cycle; measured from some arbitrary zero and expressed as an 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)  ( phase )
   (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
   the full phase of the moon
   

verb

1. Adjust so as to be in a synchronized condition  ( phase )
   adjust so as to be in a synchronized condition
    He phased the intake with the output of the machine
   he phased the intake with the output of the machine
   
2. Arrange in phases or stages  ( phase )
   arrange in phases or stages
    Phase a withdrawal
   phase a withdrawal