EQUINOX Meaning and
Definition
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An equinox refers to a celestial event that occurs twice a year, usually on March 20th or 21st, and September 22nd or 23rd, when the center of the Sun is positioned directly above the Earth's equator. It is during these days that day and night are nearly equal in length all across the globe. The term "equinox" stems from the Latin words "aequus" meaning equal and "nox" meaning night. The name aptly describes the phenomenon, as during these celestial events, the duration of daylight and darkness is approximately equal, symbolizing a state of balance.
The equinox marks the transition between the seasons, shifting from winter to spring in the Northern Hemisphere and from summer to autumn in the Southern Hemisphere. It is an astronomical occurrence that is significant in various cultures and religious traditions, often celebrated with festivals and rituals.
From an astronomical perspective, the equinox occurs due to the tilt of the Earth's axis in its orbit around the Sun. During the equinox, the angle of the Earth's axial tilt ensures that the Sun illuminates both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres equally, resulting in a near equilibrium of day and night. However, it is important to note that the exact duration of day and night may vary slightly depending on an individual's location on the globe.
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The time when the sun enters on the equinoctial line-the sun rising higher in the heavens every day at noon till the point is reached when the days and nights are of equal length all over the world, makes what is called the vernal or spring equinox, about 21st March; when the same point is reached in descending, the sun makes what is called the autumnal equinox, about 23d September.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for EQUINOX *
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Other Common Misspellings for EQUINOX
Etymology of EQUINOX
The word "equinox" is derived from Latin. It combines the Latin words "aequus" meaning "equal" and "nox" meaning "night". Therefore, "equinox" refers to the time of the year when day and night are approximately equal in length, occurring twice a year in spring and autumn.
Idioms with the word EQUINOX
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au·tum·nal equinox
The autumnal equinox is the time of the year when the sun crosses the celestial equator and day and night are of equal length, marking the beginning of fall in the Northern Hemisphere.
Similar spelling words for EQUINOX
- equinix,
- IGNIX,
- awakings,
- IGNEX,
- wickings,
- iconix,
- Autumnal-equinox,
- eggnogs,
- IGNYX,
- yokings,
- EGNX,
- yakkings,
- IGNX,
- UKNAQS,
- whackings,
- OCNGS,
- ICCNX,
- waygoings,
- wiggings,
- wakings.
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