Solstice: meaning, definitions and examples
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solstice
[ ˈsɒl.stɪs ]
astronomical event
A solstice is an astronomical event that occurs twice each year, when the sun reaches its highest or lowest point in the sky at noon, resulting in the longest and shortest days of the year. The summer solstice occurs around June 21, marking the longest day and shortest night, while the winter solstice occurs around December 21, marking the shortest day and longest night. These events are significant in many cultures, often celebrated with festivals and rituals. The word 'solstice' comes from the Latin solstitium, which means 'sun standing still'.
Synonyms
change of season, solar event, turning point
Examples of usage
- The summer solstice is celebrated with various festivals.
- Many cultures have unique traditions for the winter solstice.
- The solstice marks the changing of the seasons.
- During the solstice, the sun appears to stand still in the sky.
Translations
Translations of the word "solstice" in other languages:
🇵🇹 solstício
🇮🇳 संक्रांति
🇩🇪 Sonnenwende
🇮🇩 solstis
🇺🇦 сонцестояння
🇵🇱 przesilenie
🇯🇵 至点
🇫🇷 solstice
🇪🇸 solsticio
🇹🇷 gündönümü
🇰🇷 지점
🇸🇦 الانقلاب الشمسي
🇨🇿 slunovrat
🇸🇰 slovovrat
🇨🇳 至点
- 夏至
- 冬至
🇸🇮 sončev obrat
🇮🇸 sólstöður
🇰🇿 күн тоқырауы
🇬🇪 მზის უღელტეხილი
🇦🇿 gün döngəsi
🇲🇽 solsticio
Etymology
The word 'solstice' has its origins in the early 14th century, derived from the Latin term 'solstitium'. This Latin word is a combination of 'sol', meaning 'sun', and 'stitium', which means 'to stand still'. The term reflects the sun's apparent pause in its path during the solstices, as it reaches its highest or lowest point in the sky. The two solstices, summer and winter, have been observed by various civilizations throughout history, influencing agricultural practices, calendar systems, and cultural celebrations. The concept of the solstice has deep roots in various mythologies and religions, symbolizing rebirth during the winter solstice and the height of life during the summer solstice.