phase

1. phase (noun) — sense 1

Definition: A distinguishable part of a sequence or cycle occurring over time.

Example: It would have been a simple enough move to warn the firm, but Max Carrados's interest lay in the phase of crime rather than in forestalling it, and on that score he had little tangible as yet […]

2. phase (noun) — sense 2

Definition: That which is exhibited to the eye; the appearance which anything manifests, especially any one among different and varying appearances of the same object.

3. phase (noun) — sense 3

Definition: Any appearance or aspect of an object of mental apprehension or view.

Example: The problem has many phases.

4. phase (verb) — sense 4

Definition: To begin—if construed with "in"—or to discontinue—if construed with out—(doing) something over a period of time (i.e. in phases).

Example: The use of the obsolete machines was gradually phased out as the new models were phased in.

5. phase (verb) — sense 5

Definition: To determine haplotypes in (data) when genotypes are known.

6. phase (verb) — sense 6

Definition: To pass into or through a solid object.

Example: Anyone who has lost their way in cyberspace—realizing they have just phased into what they had previously categorized as 'solid' matter—will understand this example.