Asterism: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'asterism' in a scientific or astronomical context when referring to a recognizable pattern of stars that may not be an official constellation.

• The Big Dipper is an asterism within the constellation Ursa Major.
• Astronomers often use asterisms to help locate constellations in the night sky.

Use 'star pattern' in everyday language to describe any visible arrangement or grouping of stars in the night sky.

• We spent the night gazing at the beautiful star patterns.
• Teach children about different star patterns to make stargazing more fun.

Use 'stellar configuration' in a more formal or technical context to describe the specific arrangement and positions of stars, often in scientific discussions or astrological interpretations.

• The stellar configuration during your birth may influence your astrological sign.
• Scientists are studying the stellar configuration of the newly discovered galaxy.

In typography, an asterism is a rarely used symbol consisting of three asterisks arranged in a triangular formation. It is often used to indicate a break in the text.

• The author used an asterism to indicate the passage of time between chapters.
• The manuscript was filled with asterisms to denote significant shifts in the narrative.

A triskele is a symbol consisting of three interlocked spirals or legs. It is often found in Celtic art and has cultural and spiritual significance.

• The ancient monument was adorned with carvings of the triskele.
• She wore a necklace featuring a triskele, symbolizing unity and motion.

This word describes something that is made in three identical copies. It is frequently used in administrative and formal documentation.

• Please fill out this form in triplicate before submitting it.
• The contract was signed in triplicate, with one copy for each party involved.