Sun: meaning, definitions and examples

Common and everyday term used to refer to the star at the center of our solar system. Used in scientific, casual, and literary contexts.

• The sun is shining brightly today
• We'll go to the beach to enjoy the sun

General term for any luminous celestial body similar to the sun, used commonly in both scientific and everyday contexts.

• The night sky is filled with stars
• Our sun is just one of many stars in the universe

Scientific and formal term, often used in astronomical contexts or science fiction. Sol can also denote the sun when distinguishing our sun from other stars.

• The third planet from Sol is Earth
• In our solar system, Sol is just one of many stars in the Milky Way

Literary or poetic term, often used in older texts or poetry to describe the sun. Rarely used in modern conversation.

• The daystar rose above the horizon, casting its golden light

Commonly used in everyday language to refer to the star at the center of our solar system that gives us light and warmth.

• The sun rises in the east and sets in the west.
• Make sure to wear sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun.

A general term used to describe any star in the universe, not specifically our sun.

• There are billions of stars in our galaxy.
• At night, you can see stars shining in the sky.

An archaic or poetic term often used in literature and poetry to describe the sun.

• The daystar ascended, casting golden rays across the landscape.

A more formal or scientific term for the sun, derived from Latin. Commonly used in astronomy.

• The planet Mars has days called sols, which are slightly longer than Earth's days.
• Our star, Sol, is classified as a G-type main-sequence star.

Everyday conversation, scientific discussions, and general usage. Commonly used to describe the star at the center of our solar system.

• The sun rises in the east and sets in the west.
• Sunlight is essential for plants to perform photosynthesis.

Mythology, especially Greek mythology. Refers to the Greek god associated with the sun, music, and prophecy.

• In Greek mythology, Apollo drives his chariot across the sky, bringing daylight.
• The temple dedicated to Apollo at Delphi was a center of wisdom in ancient Greece.

Mythology, particularly ancient Egyptian. Refers to the Egyptian sun god and one of the most important deities in their pantheon.

• Ra was often depicted as a man with the head of a falcon, crowned with a solar disk.
• The ancient Egyptians believed that Ra sailed across the sky during the day in his solar boat.

Mythology, specifically ancient Greek. Refers to the Titan god of the sun.

• According to the legend, Helios drove his golden chariot across the sky daily.
• The Colossus of Rhodes was an enormous statue of Helios.