solstice

[ˈsɒlstɪs]

solstice Definition

either of the two times in the year, the summer solstice and the winter solstice, when the sun reaches its highest or lowest point in the sky at noon, marked by the longest and shortest days.

Using solstice: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "solstice" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The summer solstice is the longest day of the year.

  • Example

    The winter solstice is the shortest day of the year.

  • Example

    The solstice marks the beginning of a new season.

solstice Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for solstice

Phrases with solstice

  • the solstice that occurs around June 21st in the northern hemisphere and December 21st in the southern hemisphere, marking the beginning of summer in the northern hemisphere and winter in the southern hemisphere

    Example

    People celebrate the summer solstice with bonfires and festivals.

  • the solstice that occurs around December 21st in the northern hemisphere and June 21st in the southern hemisphere, marking the beginning of winter in the northern hemisphere and summer in the southern hemisphere

    Example

    The winter solstice is also known as the 'longest night of the year.'

  • the point on the celestial sphere where the sun appears to stand still during the solstices

    Example

    The solstice point is an important reference for astronomers.

Origins of solstice

from Latin 'solstitium', from 'sol' (sun) + 'stit-' (standing)

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Summary: solstice in Brief

A 'solstice' [ˈsɒlstɪs] is one of two times in the year, the summer solstice and the winter solstice, when the sun reaches its highest or lowest point in the sky at noon, marking the longest and shortest days. The summer solstice marks the beginning of summer in the northern hemisphere and winter in the southern hemisphere, while the winter solstice marks the beginning of winter in the northern hemisphere and summer in the southern hemisphere. 'Solstice' is also used to refer to the solstice point on the celestial sphere.