How Do You Spell SYNODIC?

Pronunciation: [sɪnˈɒdɪk] (IPA)

Synodic is a scientific term used to describe the time between two similar positions of celestial objects. Its spelling can be a challenge due to its unusual combination of consonants and vowels. The word is pronounced /sɪˈnɒdɪk/, where the first syllable starts with the short i vowel sound and the second syllable includes the long o sound. The final syllable is pronounced with a short i and the letter c is pronounced like a hard k. Despite its tricky spelling, synodic is a key term in astronomy and astrophysics.

SYNODIC Meaning and Definition

1. Synodic is an adjective that refers to a celestial phenomenon or event that is related to or occurs during a specific phase of a planet's orbit in relation to the Sun. The term is primarily used in the field of astronomy and astrology to describe the time it takes for a celestial body, such as a planet or moon, to return to the same position in the sky as observed from Earth. It derives from the Greek word "sunodikos," meaning "meeting" or "coming together."

   In the context of astronomy, synodic is often associated with the synodic period, which is the interval between two successive occurrences of the same phase, such as a new moon to new moon or a full moon to full moon. This phenomenon is due to the relative motions of Earth and the observed celestial object, which result in different apparent positions over time. For example, the synodic period of the Moon, also known as the lunar month, is roughly 29.5 days.

   In astrology, synodic is used to describe the alignment or conjunction of planets in the zodiac. During a synodic event, two or more planets appear close together in the sky, forming a conjunction, and their energies are believed to interact with each other, often influencing human behavior and events. Astrologers study these synodic relationships to make predictions and interpretations about the influences of planetary alignments on individuals and society as a whole.

   Overall, the term synodic pertains to the synchronization of celestial bodies and denotes specific phases or events in their orbits, both in scientific and astrological contexts.

2. Pert. to or transacted in a synod; Pert. to the period of time which the moon takes in returning to any given phase.

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

Common Misspellings for SYNODIC

• synoeic
• ysnodic

Etymology of SYNODIC

The word "synodic" originates from the Greek word "sunodikós" (συνοδικός), which is a combination of two Greek words: "sun" (συν), meaning "together", and "hodikós" (ὁδικός), derived from "hodós" (ὁδός), meaning "path" or "way". Therefore, the etymology of "synodic" suggests the concept of things occurring together, particularly in relation to the paths or cycles they follow.