SOLSTICE Meaning and
Definition
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Solstice refers to an astronomical event that occurs twice a year, marking two specific points in the Earth's orbit around the sun. It is derived from the Latin words "sol" meaning sun, and "sistere" meaning to stand still. The solstice marks the precise moments when the sun appears at its highest or lowest point in the sky at noon, resulting in the shortest and longest day of the year.
The summer solstice, also known as the June solstice, typically falls around June 20th or 21st in the Northern Hemisphere and December 21st or 22nd in the Southern Hemisphere. During this time, the sun reaches its highest point in the sky while the opposite hemisphere experiences its winter solstice, where the sun is at its lowest point.
Conversely, the winter solstice occurs around December 21st or 22nd in the Northern Hemisphere and June 20th or 21st in the Southern Hemisphere. During this period, the sun is at its lowest point in the sky at noon, resulting in the shortest day and longest night of the year.
The solstice has been of great significance to various cultures throughout history, often associated with rituals, celebrations, and the changing of seasons. It serves as a crucial milestone in agricultural, religious, and cultural practices, signifying the transitions between seasons and the renewal of life.
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The time when the sun, in its apparent annual revolution, arrives at its furthest point north or south from the equator, and seems to stand still-in the northern hemisphere the summer solstice being about 22d June, and the winter solstice about 22d December.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Etymology of SOLSTICE
The word "solstice" is derived from the Latin terms "sol" meaning "sun" and "sistere" meaning "to stand still". This is because during the solstice, the sun appears to either stop its movement in the sky or reverse its direction before continuing its path, leading to the lengthening or shortening of daylight. The term "solstice" was first recorded in English around the 13th century.
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