Constellation: meaning, definitions and examples
✨
constellation
[ ˌkɒn.stəˈleɪ.ʃən ]
astronomy
A constellation is a group of stars that form a recognizable pattern in the night sky, often representing mythological figures or animals. They have been used throughout history for navigation and storytelling.
Synonyms
star group, star pattern
Examples of usage
- Orion is one of the most famous constellations in the night sky.
- The constellation Ursa Major contains the Big Dipper.
- Ancient sailors relied on constellations for navigation.
- Many cultures have their own interpretations of the constellations.
Etymology
The word 'constellation' originates from the Latin 'constellatio', which itself is derived from 'constellare', meaning 'to set stars together'. The term was used to describe the groups of stars observed in the sky, and it reflects humanity's long history of mapping and interpreting the night sky. Ancient civilizations, including the Greeks and Romans, named these constellations after their gods and heroes, as well as animals and mythological creatures. Over centuries, various cultures have developed their own systems of constellations based on their geographical observations and mythologies. The established modern star maps, which include 88 recognized constellations, were formalized by the International Astronomical Union in the early 20th century, bringing a standardized approach to the identification and naming of constellations globally.