BLUEMOON Meaning and
Definition
-
Bluemoon has two primary definitions based on its usage in different contexts. The first definition describes bluemoon as a celestial event, while the second definition refers to a term used figuratively.
In its astronomical sense, a bluemoon is the occurrence of an additional full moon within a specific period. This can happen in a year, month, or even a season, where two full moons appear rather than the usual one. The term "blue" in this context does not actually refer to the color of the moon, but rather it implies something rare or unusual.
Alternatively, bluemoon can also be used metaphorically to define something that happens very rarely or once in a long period. In this context, it is often associated with a rare event, occurrence, or situation, depicting its uncommonness or rarity. This figurative usage of the term is derived from the celestial sense, emphasizing the infrequency of such events or circumstances.
Whether used in an astronomical or metaphorical sense, bluemoon conveys the idea of rarity, something that is uncommon or occurs only occasionally. It adds a poetic touch to describing occurrences that are outside the norm, making it a frequently employed phrase in various contexts such as astronomy, literature, and everyday conversation.
Etymology of BLUEMOON
The word "bluemoon" has its origin in Middle English, dating back to the 16th century. The term "bluemoon" originally referred to a phenomenon that occurs when a full moon appears for the second time within a calendar month. It was derived from the earlier phrase "belewe moon", where "belewe" means "to betray". This expression was used because the additional full moon in a month would "betray" the regular lunar cycle. Over time, "belewe moon" transformed into "bluemoon", maintaining its association with rare or unexpected events. The term "bluemoon" has also been widely used in various cultural contexts, including literature, music, and common idiomatic expressions.
Similar spelling word for BLUEMOON
