solstice
SOL-stis
/ˈsɒlstɪs/.
Either of the two times in the year (summer and winter) when the sun reaches its highest or lowest point in the sky at noon, marked by the longest and shortest days.
Solstice is an astronomical term that carries deep historical, cultural, and spiritual significance, marking the natural turning points of the year.
The story behind the word. The word solstice comes from the Latin 'solstitium', which is a combination of 'sol' (the sun) and 'sistere' (to stand still). This beautifully describes how, to the ancient observer, the sun's path across the sky appears to stop and hover before reversing direction.
Word relationships
- astronomical turning point: Astronomical turning point is a descriptive phrase, whereas solstice is the precise scientific and cultural term.
- equinox: Equinox refers to the days when day and night are of equal length, whereas solstice refers to the days of extreme light or darkness.
Commonly confused with
- equinox: Equinox occurs when day and night are equal (March/September), while solstice occurs at the extremes of day length (June/December).
Word family
- solstitial (adjective): Pertaining to or happening at a solstice.
Collocations
- winter solstice
- summer solstice
- celebrate the solstice
- solstice ritual
Example sentences
- "Many ancient cultures built monuments to track the sun's position during the winter solstice." An explanation of the astronomical significance of midwinter.
Memory hook
At the 'solstice', the 'sol' (sun) seems to 'station' itself and stand still. The solstice is when the sun stands still.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'equinox', which is the time of year when day and night are of equal length (occurring in spring and autumn).
Fun facts
- Stonehenge in England is precisely aligned with the sunset of the winter solstice and the sunrise of the summer solstice, showing its ancient importance.
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