What does B.C.E. mean?

[osprey88]

In relation to historical dates, you have A.D.(anno domini), and B.C.(before Christ). Lately, I've noticed it's more commonly written as B.C.E. , so what's the E stand for, and why the change? Thanks in advance.

[monkeyeyes]

Before the Common Era..........in order to step away from the Christian association with the year date.

[jno]

but as the date is still from Christ's supposed birth - and as this is by no means common to everyone - you might think the change has been entirely cosmetic

[Octavius]

You also have CE in lieu of AD.

Although monkey is correct, it could be interpreted as Before Christian Era (BCE) and CE (Christian Era) which is kinda funny really.

[rnchugg]

I thought it meant Before Cadburys Exsisted lol