Relative age is the age of a rock layer (or the fossils it contains) compared to other layers. It can be determined by looking at the position of rock layers. Absolute age is the numeric age of a layer of rocks or fossils. Absolute age can be determined by using radiometric dating.

What is the meaning of relative age?

1. n. [Geology] The approximate age determination of rocks, fossils or minerals made by comparing whether the material is younger or older than other surrounding material.