GNOMONICAL Meaning and
Definition
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Gnomonical is an adjective that pertains to or relates to gnomon, which is a device used in ancient times to determine the time of day by tracking the position of the sun. The term gnomon comes from the Greek word "gnōmōn," meaning "indicator" or "one who interprets signs." In this sense, something that is described as gnomonical is linked to the practices or principles of gnomonics.
In a broader sense, gnomonical can also refer to the study, measurement, or calculation of angles, particularly those involved in astronomical observations or other scientific fields. It is closely associated with geometry and trigonometry, as these disciplines deal with understanding and calculating angles.
Furthermore, gnomonical can also describe objects or designs that incorporate the principles of gnomonics. For example, a gnomonical sundial is a type of sundial that uses a gnomon to cast a shadow, allowing the observer to determine the time. A gnomonical projection is a map projection technique that preserves the relative angles between features on a curved surface when projected onto a flat surface.
Overall, gnomonical encompasses the concepts, devices, measurements, calculations, and designs associated with gnomonics, playing a significant role in the fields of astronomy, mathematics, cartography, and timekeeping.
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Pert. to dials or dialling.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for GNOMONICAL
- fnomonical
- vnomonical
- bnomonical
- hnomonical
- ynomonical
- tnomonical
- gbomonical
- gmomonical
- gjomonical
- ghomonical
- gnimonical
- gnkmonical
- gnlmonical
- gnpmonical
- gn0monical
- gn9monical
- gnononical
- gnokonical
- gnojonical
Etymology of GNOMONICAL
The word "gnomonical" is derived from the Greek word "gnomonikos", which itself comes from "gnōmōn", meaning "an indicator" or "a judge". In Greek, "gnomonikos" refers to someone or something that relates to the use of a gnomon, an upright stick or object used to cast a shadow and measure the time. Over time, "gnomonical" has come to be used in English to describe any computation or knowledge related to sundials and the determination of time using them.
