Geocentric: meaning, definitions and examples
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geocentric
[ˌdʒiːəʊˈsɛntrɪk ]
Definition
astronomy theory
Geocentric refers to a model of the universe in which Earth is considered the center of the universe with all celestial bodies, including the Sun and the stars, orbiting around it. This model was widely accepted until the heliocentric model, which places the Sun at the center, gained prominence.
Synonyms
Earth-centered, Earth-focused.
Examples of usage
- The geocentric model dominated ancient astronomy.
- In a geocentric system, the Earth is stationary.
- Historically, philosophers like Aristotle supported geocentric views.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The geocentric model was widely accepted from ancient times until the Renaissance, primarily based on the works of Greek philosopher Ptolemy.
- In ancient cultures, the idea that Earth was stationary and at the center reflected humanity's perspective of their place in the universe.
Science
- The geocentric model was challenged by astronomers like Copernicus, who proposed a heliocentric system where the Sun is at the center.
- Observations of planetary motion and the development of telescopes eventually led to the acceptance of the heliocentric model in the 16th century.
Cultural Impact
- The geocentric view influenced art and literature, depicting celestial movements and the human experience as Earth-based.
- Many religious beliefs were tied to the geocentric theory, leading to conflicts during the Scientific Revolution when alternative models emerged.
Philosophy
- Many ancient philosophers believed that placing humanity at the center of the universe was a reflection of human importance and linked to spiritual ideas.
- The shift from a geocentric to a heliocentric worldview is often seen as a critical moment in human thought, symbolizing the power of observation and science.
Education
- Understanding the geocentric model is foundational in astronomy education, illustrating how human perceptions of cosmos evolved.
- Lessons about geocentric vs. heliocentric models showcase the importance of questioning established beliefs in scientific progress.
Translations
Translations of the word "geocentric" in other languages:
🇵🇹 geocêntrico
🇮🇳 भू-केंद्रित
🇩🇪 geozentrisch
🇮🇩 geosentris
🇺🇦 геоцентричний
🇵🇱 geocentryczny
🇯🇵 地心説の
🇫🇷 géocentrique
🇪🇸 geocéntrico
🇹🇷 jeosantrik
🇰🇷 지구 중심의
🇸🇦 مركزي للأرض
🇨🇿 geocentrický
🇸🇰 geocentrický
🇨🇳 地心说的
🇸🇮 geocentričen
🇮🇸 geocentric
🇰🇿 геоцентрлік
🇬🇪 გეოცენტრიული
🇦🇿 geosentrik
🇲🇽 geocéntrico
Word Frequency Rank
At rank #28,653, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.
- ...
- 28650 climaxed
- 28651 predicative
- 28652 toilette
- 28653 geocentric
- 28654 overleaf
- 28655 unrealistically
- 28656 proverbially
- ...