WINTER SOLSTICE Meaning and
Definition
-
Winter solstice is a celestial phenomenon that marks the beginning of winter in the Northern Hemisphere and summer in the Southern Hemisphere. It occurs annually around December 21st when the Sun reaches its southernmost point in the sky. During this event, the Sun appears at its lowest position in the sky, above the Tropic of Capricorn in the Southern Hemisphere and below the Tropic of Cancer in the Northern Hemisphere.
The term "solstice" originates from the Latin words "sol" (sun) and "sistere" (to stand still), implying the Sun's apparent pause in its seasonal movement. Winter solstice is characterized by the shortest day and longest night of the year, with fewer daylight hours and longer periods of darkness.
Cultures worldwide have recognized and celebrated the winter solstice for centuries, as it conveys significant symbolism and holds cultural and spiritual significance. Many civilizations associate this event with the rebirth of light, the return of longer days, and the hope of a new beginning. Festivities such as Yule, Dongzhi, and Pancha Ganapati are among the various traditional celebrations observed during the winter solstice.
In astronomy, the winter solstice also influences the Earth's tilt and axial tilt geometry. It represents a critical point in the astronomical calendar, influencing climate patterns, as well as the timing and progression of seasons throughout the year.
-
With respect to the northern hemisphere, the period of the year when the sun attains his greatest southern declination-that is, appears lowest in the heavens at noon.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for WINTER SOLSTICE
- qinter solstice
- ainter solstice
- sinter solstice
- einter solstice
- 3inter solstice
- 2inter solstice
- wunter solstice
- wjnter solstice
- wknter solstice
- wonter solstice
- w9nter solstice
- w8nter solstice
- wibter solstice
- wimter solstice
- wijter solstice
- wihter solstice
- winrer solstice
- winfer solstice
- winger solstice
Etymology of WINTER SOLSTICE
The word "winter solstice" has its roots in Old English and Latin.
The word "winter" comes from the Old English word "winter", which shares its roots with other Germanic languages. In Old English, "winter" referred to the coldest season of the year, typically characterized by long nights and low temperatures.
The word "solstice" comes from Latin, specifically from the combination of two words: "sol" meaning "sun" and "sistere" meaning "to stand still". This term refers to the astronomical event during which the Sun appears to reach its lowest point in the sky, resulting in the shortest day and longest night of the year.
In combination, "winter solstice" denotes the specific moment during the winter season when the Earth's axial tilt is farthest away from the sun, leading to the shortest daylight hours and longest nighttime hours in the year.
Similar spelling words for WINTER SOLSTICE
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
