SUN DIAL Meaning and
Definition
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A sundial is a device or instrument that measures time based on the position and movement of the sun. It consists of a horizontal plate known as the dial, usually made of stone or metal, which is marked with hour lines representing the divisions of the day. The sundial may be mounted on a pedestal or placed on a flat surface in an open area where it can receive direct sunlight throughout the day.
At the center of the dial, there is a perpendicular rod known as the gnomon or style that casts a shadow onto the dial. As the sun moves across the sky, the shadow of the gnomon moves along the hour lines, indicating the time of the day. The length of the shadow changes with the position of the sun, longer shadows indicating earlier hours and shorter shadows representing later hours.
Sundials have been used for thousands of years as a means of timekeeping in various cultures and civilizations. Before the invention of mechanical clocks and watches, sundials were crucial for determining the time during the day. They are not influenced by human intervention, relying solely on the natural movement of the celestial body that provides a consistent and reliable indication of time.
Although sundials have been largely replaced by modern timekeeping technology, they serve as decorative and historical artifacts in gardens, parks, and public spaces. They also offer a connection with ancient civilizations and continue to be appreciated for their aesthetic appeal and as a symbolic representation of the relationship between humans and the sun.
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An instr. to show time by a style casting a shadow on a carved plate or surface.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SUN DIAL
- sundial
- aun dial
- zun dial
- xun dial
- dun dial
- eun dial
- wun dial
- syn dial
- shn dial
- sjn dial
- sin dial
- s8n dial
- s7n dial
- sum dial
- suj dial
- suh dial
- sun sial
- sun xial
- sun cial
- sun fial
Etymology of SUN DIAL
The word "sundial" is derived from the combination of two words: "sun" and "dial".
The term "sun" comes from the Old English word "sunne" and is ultimately derived from the Proto-Germanic word "sunnon". This word has Indo-European roots and is related to similar words in other languages, such as the Latin "sol" and the Greek "helios", both meaning the sun.
The word "dial" is derived from the Middle English word "dyal", which was borrowed from the Old French word "cadran" or "cadreal". It further originated from the Latin word "cadranum", meaning "a sundial or clock".
When combined, "sun" refers to the celestial body, and "dial" refers to the instrument used to measure time.
Similar spelling word for SUN DIAL
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