ASTRONOMICAL CLOCK Meaning and
Definition
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An astronomical clock is a specialized type of timekeeping device that combines mechanisms to indicate both the time and astronomical information. It is typically a large and intricately constructed clock displayed in public places, such as cathedrals or town squares, serving as both a practical timekeeping instrument and a visually striking ornament.
The astronomical clock not only tracks the hours, minutes, and seconds of the day, but it also provides additional data related to the celestial bodies and their movements. This includes displaying the positions of the sun, moon, stars, and zodiac constellations, as well as indicating the phases of the moon, the date of the year, and sometimes even the times of sunrise and sunset. Through its various dials, hands, and rotating celestial spheres, an astronomical clock offers a panoramic representation of the celestial sphere and its relation to time.
Historically, astronomical clocks were crafted by skilled clockmakers and employed an intricate array of gears, cogs, and animated figures to accomplish their functions. These clocks often embody a fusion of artistic creativity, engineering prowess, and scientific knowledge, showcasing the interdisciplinary nature of their construction.
Today, astronomical clocks continue to captivate enthusiasts and tourists alike, acting as symbolical representations of the relationship between time and the cosmos. They serve as reminders of humanity's longstanding fascination with the heavens and stand as extraordinary examples of the intersection of science, craftsmanship, and aesthetic design.
Common Misspellings for ASTRONOMICAL CLOCK
- zstronomical clock
- sstronomical clock
- wstronomical clock
- qstronomical clock
- aatronomical clock
- aztronomical clock
- axtronomical clock
- adtronomical clock
- aetronomical clock
- awtronomical clock
- asrronomical clock
- asfronomical clock
- asgronomical clock
- asyronomical clock
- as6ronomical clock
- as5ronomical clock
- asteonomical clock
- astdonomical clock
- astfonomical clock
- asttonomical clock
Etymology of ASTRONOMICAL CLOCK
The word "astronomical" derives from the Greek word "astron" meaning "star" and "nomos" meaning "law" or "order". It pertains to the study and observation of celestial bodies, such as stars, planets, and other astronomical phenomena.
The word "clock" originates from the Middle Dutch word "clocke" or Old North French word "cloque", which referred to a bell or a time-telling device. Ultimately, it traces back to the medieval Latin word "clocca", meaning "bell". Over time, "clock" came to represent a machine or device used for measuring and indicating time.
Therefore, when the terms are combined to form "astronomical clock", it refers to a specialized timepiece that incorporates various astronomical features such as celestial positions, astronomical events, or astronomical measurements. These clocks often provide additional information beyond mere timekeeping, enabling observations and calculations related to astronomy.
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