(n) a theory of evolution holding that evolutionary change in the fossil record came in fits and starts rather than in a steady process of slow change, Syn. theory of punctuated equilibrium
v. t. [ imp. & p. p. Punctuated p. pr. & vb. n. Punctuating. ] [ Cf. F. ponctuer. See Punctual. ] To mark with points; to separate into sentences, clauses, etc., by points or stops which mark the proper pauses in expressing the meaning. [ 1913 Webster ]
[顿挫 / 頓挫, dùn cuòㄉㄨㄣˋ ㄘㄨㄛˋ] a transition (stop and change) in spoken sound, music or in brush strokes; a cadence; punctuated by a transition; with syncopated cadence (brush stroke in painting)#68801
[くぎる, kugiru] (v5r, vt) (1) (esp. 区切る) to demarcate; to delimit; to divide (an area); to mark off; to cut off; (2) (esp. 句切る) to punctuate; to put an end to (e.g. a sentence); to insert pauses or breaks (e.g. when reading aloud); (P)