Polestar Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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polestar
[หpoสlหstษr ]
Definition
navigation
A polestar refers to a star that is used as a reference point for navigation. Traditionally, it has been known as the North Star, or Polaris, which is situated nearly directly above the North Pole. Mariners and travelers have historically relied on the polestar for guidance in the night sky.
Synonyms
Polaris, guiding star, north star.
Examples of usage
- The sailors used the polestar to navigate through the dark waters.
- In ancient times, travelers often looked to the polestar for direction.
- The polestar shone brightly, helping them find their way home.
- During their journey, they relied heavily on the polestar for navigation.
- The polestar serves as a beacon for those lost at sea.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Astronomy
- Polaris, the current polestar, is located about 430 light-years from Earth and is part of the Little Dipper constellation.
- It is not a single star but a triple star system, consisting of two main stars and a smaller one, creating a unique celestial dynamic.
Cultural Significance
- Many ancient cultures, including the Vikings and Polynesians, relied on the polestar for navigation across oceans.
- In literature, the polestar often symbolizes guidance, purpose, and unwavering direction during challenging times.
Navigation
- Before modern technology, sailors and travelers used the polestar to orient themselves in the dark, ensuring safe passage.
- It is at the end of the handle of the Little Dipper, making it easily identifiable in the night sky.
Science
- Even though the Earth wobbles on its axis over time, Polaris remains close to the North Celestial Pole, making it a consistent reference point.
- Its brightness can vary slightly over time, making it an interesting subject of study for astronomers examining stellar phenomena.
Origin of 'polestar'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'polestar' comes from 'pole', which refers to the North Pole, and 'star', indicating its bright position in the sky.
- In Old English, 'pol' meant 'axis' or 'pivot', symbolizing how this star has long been a point of navigation.
The term 'polestar' originates from the Middle English word 'polestare', which combines 'pole' (referring to the celestial poles or the axis around which the stars appear to rotate) and 'star'. Historically, the North Star has been a crucial point of reference in navigation, especially before the advent of modern navigational tools. It has served as a symbol of guidance and steadfastness across various cultures. The concept of the polestar holds significant importance in both astronomical contexts and metaphorical uses, representing a guiding light or central point in various fields such as philosophy and personal development.