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firmament

noun

/ˈfɜːməmənt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of firmament

The arching expanse of the sky, often regarded as a vast and heavenly dome that appears to cover the Earth.
"The stars shone brightly in the firmament above us."

Detailed meaning of firmament

Historically, the term "firmament" was used to describe the celestial sphere, an imagined solid structure that was believed to encircle the Earth in ancient cosmology. In religious and mythological contexts, it often denotes the abode of the stars, planets, and divine beings, serving as a symbol of the heavens or the celestial realm. Although the concept of a literal firmament has been largely abandoned in modern cosmology, the word "firmament" continues to be used poetically and symbolically to evoke the idea of the expansive, awe-inspiring, and ethereal nature of the sky and heavens above.

Example sentences containing firmament

1. The stars shone brilliantly in the night sky, filling the firmament.
2. Ancient cultures believed the firmament held the secrets of the cosmos.
3. As the sun set, the colors painted across the firmament were breathtaking.
4. The firmament above the desert seemed infinite and untouchable.
5. Observing shooting stars is a rare treat in the vast firmament.
6. In poetry, the firmament often symbolizes the realm of dreams.

History and etymology of firmament

The noun 'firmament' has its origins in Latin and Middle English. It can be traced back to the Latin word 'firmamentum,' which was used in the Vulgate translation of the Bible to describe the 'expanse' or 'vault' of the sky. This Latin term was derived from 'firmare,' meaning 'to make firm' or 'to strengthen.' In Middle English, it was adapted as 'firmament' and used to refer to the arching expanse of the heavens, often conceived as a vast and heavenly dome that appears to cover the Earth. The etymology of 'firmament' thus reflects the idea of a stable and enduring celestial expanse, emphasizing the perceived solidity and permanence of the sky, as seen from the perspective of ancient observers who marveled at the heavens above.

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Further usage examples of firmament

1. The firmament's beauty has inspired artists and astronomers alike.
2. The firmament's expanse stretches beyond human comprehension.
3. The firmament at twilight is a magical canvas of colors.
4. The Milky Way galaxy is a prominent feature of the night firmament.
5. The firmament's stars have guided travelers for millennia.
6. The moon's glow cast a silvery sheen on the firmament.
7. The ancient Egyptians believed deities dwelled in the firmament.
8. The firmament's vastness reminds us of our place in the universe.
9. The firmament's celestial wonders are a source of wonder and awe.
10. In the desert, the firmament appears especially clear and expansive.
11. The firmament's constellations tell stories from ancient mythology.
12. The firmament is a source of inspiration for poets and dreamers.
13. Gazing at the firmament is a humbling experience.
14. The firmament's mysteries continue to captivate astronomers.
15. The moon cast a pale light across the firmament.
16. The clouds drifted lazily across the firmament.
17. The planets were visible in the firmament with the naked eye.
18. The constellations of the firmament were named by ancient civilizations.
19. The firmament is filled with countless galaxies and nebulas.
20. The colors of the firmament changed as the sun set on the horizon.
21. The firmament seemed to stretch endlessly into the distance.
22. The firmament was a source of wonder and awe for early astronomers.
23. The firmament inspired poets and artists throughout history.
24. The study of the firmament led to important discoveries about the universe.
25. The firmament remains a mystery and a fascination for scientists and stargazers alike.