NORTH STAR Meaning and
Definition
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The term "North Star" refers to a specific star in the night sky that holds great significance in terrestrial navigation. It specifically denotes Polaris, which is the brightest star in the constellation Ursa Minor, and is positioned almost perfectly aligned with Earth's axis of rotation. This alignment causes Polaris to remain almost stationary in the northern celestial hemisphere, making it highly useful for determining directions, especially when traveling in the Northern Hemisphere. Its constant position close to the north celestial pole, at an approximate angle equal to the observer's latitude, allows individuals to orient themselves and find their way.
Metaphorically, "North Star" can also have symbolic meanings beyond its astronomical sense. In this context, it represents a guiding principle or a source of inspiration that helps individuals navigate their lives or make important decisions. This figurative use emphasizes the star's role as a dependable reference point, lending stability, purpose, and direction to personal or professional endeavors.
The North Star has been known and used for navigation for centuries and has significant historical and cultural importance. Throughout different cultures and civilizations, including ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and even Viking navigators, the North Star has been revered as a reliable guide in sailing and travel. Its unwavering presence amidst the vastness of the night sky has made it an enduring symbol of guidance, dependability, and a fixed point of reference.
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The star always seen in the north; the pole star or polar star.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for NORTH STAR *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for NORTH STAR
- borth star
- morth star
- jorth star
- horth star
- nirth star
- nkrth star
- nlrth star
- nprth star
- n0rth star
- n9rth star
- noeth star
- nodth star
- nofth star
- notth star
- no5th star
- no4th star
- norrh star
- norfh star
- norgh star
Etymology of NORTH STAR
The word "north star" has its roots in Old English and Old Norse languages.
The word "north" comes from the Old English word "norþ" which means "north" or "northern". It can be traced back even further to the Proto-Germanic word "nurtha" which also meant "north".
The word "star" comes from the Old English word "steorra", which is related to the Old Saxon word "sterro" and Old High German word "sterno". These words ultimately derive from the Proto-Germanic word "sternǭ", which means "star".
So, the term "north star" combines the Old English "norþ" and the Old English "steorra", meaning "north" and "star", respectively.
Similar spelling words for NORTH STAR
- northwestward,
- northwester,
- North Korea,
- North Island,
- northwest,
- northcutt,
- north-west,
- north-east,
- northwestern,
- north side,
- northcott,
- northeastern,
- northeaster,
- northeast,
- north sea,
- northeasterly,
- northeastward,
- North Korean,
- northwesterly.
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