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constellation

noun

/ˌkɒnstɪˈleɪʃn/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of constellation

A group of stars that are perceived to form a recognizable pattern or shape in the night sky.
"The Big Dipper is a well-known constellation in the northern hemisphere."

Detailed meaning of constellation

Constellations have been known and recognized since ancient times and have played an important role in various cultures and civilizations as sources of myth, legend, and scientific study. In astronomical terms, constellations are regions of the sky that are defined by specific boundaries, regardless of the actual positions of the stars within them. There are 88 officially recognized constellations, which include well-known patterns such as Orion, the Big Dipper, and Cassiopeia. These constellations have been named and identified by astronomers and have been used for thousands of years for navigation and for marking the passage of time. In addition to their practical and cultural significance, constellations have also inspired people for centuries with their beauty and mystery, and they continue to play a central role in our understanding and appreciation of the night sky.

Example sentences containing constellation

1. Orion is a prominent constellation in the winter sky.
2. We gazed at the constellation Ursa Major, the Great Bear.
3. The constellation Cassiopeia resembles a "W" in the sky.
4. A telescope can reveal hidden stars within a constellation.
5. Legends often associate constellations with mythical stories.
6. The Big Dipper is a well-known constellation in the northern sky.

History and etymology of constellation

The noun 'constellation' has its origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'constellatio,' which is a combination of 'con,' meaning 'together,' and 'stellare,' meaning 'to shine' or 'to gleam.' Therefore, the etymology of 'constellation' conveys the notion of stars that appear to shine together or form a pattern when viewed from Earth. This word aptly captures the essence of a group of stars that are perceived to create recognizable shapes or patterns in the night sky. It highlights the human fascination with connecting these distant celestial points of light into meaningful arrangements, often depicting mythological figures, animals, or objects, and has been a source of inspiration and navigation throughout human history.

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Further usage examples of constellation

1. Observing constellations has been a pastime for centuries.
2. The Southern Cross is a striking constellation in the southern hemisphere.
3. The constellation Leo represents a celestial lion.
4. Many cultures have their own unique names for constellations.
5. The zodiac consists of 12 constellations linked to astrology.
6. Identifying constellations requires a clear night and stargazing knowledge.
7. The constellation Pegasus is often associated with flying horses.
8. Orion's Belt is a distinctive feature in the Orion constellation.
9. Ancient sailors used constellations for navigation at sea.
10. A dark sky is essential for spotting faint constellations.
11. Some constellations are visible year-round, while others change.
12. The constellation Andromeda is named after a mythological princess.
13. The Milky Way passes through many constellations in its path.
14. Stargazers use star charts to locate constellations in the night sky.
15. The constellation Orion is easily visible in the winter night sky.
16. The ancient Greeks believed that the gods resided in the constellations.
17. Astronomers use telescopes to study the intricate details of constellations.
18. The constellation Cassiopeia resembles a distinctive "W" shape.
19. In many cultures, the stars in a constellation were believed to represent animals or mythological figures.
20. The constellation Draco is known for its long, serpentine shape.
21. The ancient Egyptians used the constellation Sirius to determine the start of their new year.
22. Some constellations, like the Southern Cross, can only be seen from certain parts of the world.
23. The constellation Ursa Major contains the famous asterism known as the Big Dipper.
24. Constellations have been studied and mapped for thousands of years.
25. The International Astronomical Union has recognized 88 officially recognized constellations.