SELENITES Meaning and
Definition
-
Selenites refers to the inhabitants or residents of the Earth's moon, Selene being the Greek goddess of the moon. It is derived from the term "selenite," which is a type of translucent gypsum, reflecting the moon's pearly sheen. In literature and science fiction, the term "selenites" is frequently used to refer to imaginary or hypothetical moon dwellers.
In fiction, selenites often take the form of moon-based civilizations, with unique physical and cultural characteristics. They are often depicted as highly advanced beings with technology surpassing that of Earth. Selenites may be portrayed as having evolved differently due to living in a low-gravity environment, resulting in distinctive physical attributes such as elongated limbs or differently adapted organs.
The concept of selenites has been explored in various works of literature, particularly in the realm of science fiction. Notable examples include Jules Verne's "From the Earth to the Moon" and H.G. Wells' "The First Men in the Moon," in which selenites play a pivotal role in the narratives.
Beyond fiction, the term selenites can also refer to the minerals found on the moon's surface, such as calcium sulfate dihydrate, which is commonly known as gypsum or selenite. These minerals can give unique insights into the geological composition of the moon and its history.
Common Misspellings for SELENITES
Etymology of SELENITES
The word "selenites" comes from the Greek word "selēnites", which is derived from "Selēnē", the Greek goddess of the moon. The term was first used in literature by Lucian of Samosata, a Syrian satirist and author. In his work "True History" (also known as "A True Story"), written in the 2nd century AD, Lucian describes a group of beings living on the moon called "selēnites". The word "selenites" has since been used in various contexts to refer to fictional inhabitants or explorers of the moon.
