How Do You Spell APSIS?

Pronunciation: [ˈapsɪs] (IPA)

The word "apsis" is often misspelled due to its unusual pronunciation. It is pronounced as /ˈæpsɪs/, which makes it easy to confuse with the similar-sounding words like "apses" or "abscess". The spelling of "apsis" is quite unique in that it starts with the letter "a" instead of "e" or "i" as one might expect. The best way to remember the correct spelling of this word is to understand its Latin origin, where it originally meant "arch" or "vault." So there you have it - apsis!

APSIS Meaning and Definition

1. Apsis is a term primarily used in astronomy and celestial mechanics to refer to the points of extreme distance or closest proximity between an object's orbit and another celestial body. It specifically defines the two special points in an elliptical orbit: the perihelion and aphelion for orbits around the sun, perigee and apogee for orbits around the Earth, or periselene and aposelene for orbits around the moon.

   At the apsis, the object's orbital speed is the highest or lowest it can be during its full revolution, and it marks a significant moment in the object's motion. For instance, in the case of a planet orbiting the sun, the perihelion is when the planet is closest to the sun, while the aphelion is when the planet is furthest away.

   Apsis finds frequent use in astronomical calculations, as it helps determine orbital periods, eccentricities, and other parameters that describe the object's trajectory and position. Additionally, apsis can also apply to other orbital systems beyond those involving celestial objects, such as artificial satellites, comets, and asteroids.

   The word "apsis" originated from the Greek word "apsides," which means "marks of the turning points." Apsis represents a fundamental concept in understanding the mechanics and motions of celestial bodies within the vast universe.

2. The two points in the orbits of planets in which they are at the greatest and at the least distance from the sun or the earth; apse, in a church, the rounded end of a basilica at the back of the altar; the arched roof of a room.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for APSIS

• eapsys
• EpSI'S

Etymology of APSIS

The word "apsis" comes from the Latin term "apsis" (plural: apsides), which in turn derives from the Ancient Greek term "ἁψίς" (hapsis, plural: haphsis). In both languages, "apsis" means "arch" or "vault". The term was originally used in the field of architecture and referred to the semi-circular or domed upper part of ancient buildings. Over time, its meaning extended to various other fields, including astronomy and anatomy. In the context of astronomy, apsis refers to the point of closest approach or furthest separation between a celestial object and its orbit around another object, such as the Earth and the Sun.

Similar spelling words for APSIS

• aphesis,
• aphasic.

Plural form of APSIS is APSIDES