How Do You Spell MURAL CIRCLE?

Pronunciation: [mjˈʊɹə͡l sˈɜːkə͡l] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "mural circle" can be a bit confusing, especially when it comes to pronunciation. The word is spelled M-U-R-A-L and pronounced as /ˈmjʊərəl/. The second part, "circle," is spelled as it sounds and pronounced as /ˈsɜrkəl/. "Mural" refers to a large decorative painting or design that is usually painted directly onto a wall. A mural circle, on the other hand, is a type of astronomical instrument that measures angles on the celestial sphere.

MURAL CIRCLE Meaning and Definition

1. A mural circle is a scientific instrument used in astronomy for measuring the positions and angles of celestial objects. It consists of a large circular frame, usually mounted horizontally, with graduated scales around its circumference. The circle is marked with divisions, typically in degrees, allowing for precise measurements of angular distances.

   The core components of a mural circle include a telescope, which is mounted at the center of the circle, and a graduated arc or limb around the circumference. The telescope is equipped with accurate mechanisms for horizontal and vertical movement, allowing astronomers to point it towards the desired object in the sky. They can then use the graduated scales to measure the altitude and azimuth angles of the object, facilitating the determination of its position.

   Mural circles are primarily used for positional astronomy, enabling astronomers to determine the exact coordinates of celestial bodies such as stars, planets, and comets. Their accuracy and precision make them crucial instruments for cataloging stars, creating star charts, and contributing to navigation systems.

   While modern technology has largely replaced mural circles with more advanced instruments like theodolites and digital telescopes, they still hold historical and scientific significance. Mural circles have played a crucial role in classical astronomy, aiding the work of astronomers in mapping and understanding the night sky. Some historic mural circles are preserved in museums worldwide, showcasing the evolution and progress of astronomical instruments.

2. The principal fixed instrument in an observatory, consisting of a large graduated circle fixed on a solid perpendicular wall.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for MURAL CIRCLE

• nural circle
• kural circle
• jural circle
• myral circle
• mhral circle
• mjral circle
• miral circle
• m8ral circle
• m7ral circle
• mueal circle
• mudal circle
• mufal circle
• mutal circle
• mu5al circle
• mu4al circle
• murzl circle
• mursl circle
• murwl circle
• murql circle
• murak circle

Etymology of MURAL CIRCLE

The word "mural circle" is derived from two separate sources.

First, the term "mural" comes from the Latin word "murus", meaning "wall". In the context of astronomy or surveying, a mural instrument is one that is attached or fixed to a wall or vertical surface. It indicates that the instrument is designed to be stationary and used in a horizontal plane.

Second, the word "circle" refers to the circular or rounded shape of the instrument itself. In astronomy, a circle often refers to a graduated ring or disc used to measure angles or determine positions.

Therefore, combining these two elements, a "mural circle" is an instrument used in astronomy and surveying that is fixed to a wall or vertical surface and has a circular shape. It is primarily used for measuring angles or positions accurately.