Eridanus is a word that can seem tricky to spell at first glance. However, the phonetic transcription, [əˈraɪdənəs], can help you understand how to correctly spell it. The stress falls on the second syllable, which is pronounced "rye." The third syllable is a schwa sound, similar to "uh." The final syllable is pronounced as "dən-əs." So, remember to include the "e," "i," and "a" in the correct order and stress the second syllable to spell Eridanus correctly.
Eridanus is a proper noun often used to refer to a constellation located in the southern sky. It is also the name of a river in Greek mythology. As a constellation, Eridanus is one of the 88 recognized modern constellations. It is the sixth largest constellation, stretching across a vast region of the celestial sphere. Eridanus is home to numerous stars, including some bright ones such as Achernar, which is one of the brightest stars in the night sky.
In Greek mythology, Eridanus was a mighty river considered to be a significant waterway in the ancient world. According to legends, this river is associated with the story of Phaethon, the son of Helios, the sun god. In an attempt to prove his divine parentage, Phaethon persuaded his father to let him drive the sun chariot across the sky for a day. However, he lost control of the chariot, causing havoc on Earth. Zeus intervened and struck Phaethon down with a thunderbolt, sending him plummeting into the River Eridanus.
The celestial and mythological aspects of Eridanus have made it a subject of fascination and study for astronomers, historians, and mythologists alike. Its representation in the night sky provides a connection between ancient Greek myths and our understanding of the vast cosmos.
A winding constellation in the southern hemisphere.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Eridanus" has its origin in Greek mythology. It refers to the ancient Greek name for the river Po, the longest river in Italy. In Greek mythology, the river was associated with the story of the mythical figure Phaethon, who, after losing control of the sun-chariot, was struck down by Zeus and fell into the river. The grieving sisters of Phaethon, known as the Heliades, were turned into poplar trees along the banks of the river. The name "Eridanus" might have been derived from the Phoenician word "ira", meaning "river", or from the early Greek word "eridos", also meaning "river".