Equinoctial Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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equinoctial
[ɪˈkwɪnɒkʃəl ]
Definition
relating to equinox
Equinoctial refers to events or phenomena that occur at the time of the equinox. It can describe aspects related to the equal length of day and night during the equinoxes, such as the equinoctial tides, which result from the sun's position relative to the moon.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Equinoctial storms can be particularly intense.
- The equinoctial balance of day and night fascinates many cultures.
- Farmers often plan their crops around the equinoctial season.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Astronomy
- Equinoxes occur twice a year, around March 21 (spring) and September 23 (autumn), marking the changing of seasons.
- During equinoxes, the sun rises exactly in the east and sets exactly in the west, creating nearly equal lengths of day and night worldwide.
Cultural Significance
- Many cultures celebrate the equinoxes with festivals, symbolizing balance and harmony, such as the Persian New Year, Nowruz.
- In ancient civilizations, equinoxes were crucial for agricultural planning, as they indicated the right time for planting and harvesting.
Science
- The change of seasons during the equinoxes is due to the tilt of the Earth's axis, affecting how sunlight hits the planet.
- These events are crucial for ecological balance, influencing animal migrations and plant life cycles.
Literature
- The concept of balance present in the equinox has inspired poets and writers throughout history, appearing in various literary works.
- Shakespeare referenced the themes of balance and transition tied to the equinoxes in his writings, reflecting on nature's rhythms.
Origin of 'equinoctial'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'aequinoctialis', which combines 'aequus' (equal) and 'nox' (night).
- It has been in use since the 14th century, showing the long-standing human fascination with time and seasons.
The word 'equinoctial' originates from the Latin term 'aequinoctialis', which is derived from 'aequinoctium', meaning equinox, combined with the suffix '-alis' that indicates a relationship. The Latin 'aequus' translates to 'equal' and 'nox' means 'night', which together describe the phenomenon of day and night being of equal duration. The usage of this term began to appear in English texts around the late 15th century, as scholars started documenting astronomical phenomena tied to the cycles of the Earth and its orbit around the Sun. The equinoctial period holds significance in various cultural and agricultural practices, marking times of change and balance in nature.