How Do You Spell PRECESSION?

Pronunciation: [pɹɪsˈɛʃən] (IPA)

The word "precession" refers to the forward, circular movement of an object in space. It is spelled /prɪˈsɛʃən/ in the International Phonetic Alphabet, which can help in understanding its pronunciation. The "pre-" prefix indicates "before," while the "-cession" suffix refers to a "moving away." The emphasis is on the second syllable, pronounced "SESH" with a short "e" sound. The spelling and pronunciation may pose a challenge for non-native English speakers, but with practice, it can be mastered.

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
Similar spelling words
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PRECESSION Meaning and Definition

  1. Precession is a term used in various scientific fields to describe a rotational movement or a change in orientation of an object, particularly in relation to a rotating body or point. It refers to the phenomenon where the axis of rotation of an object undergoes a slow and continuous change over time, resulting in a circular movement of the object.

    In classical mechanics, precession can occur in systems where a rotating body, such as a gyroscopic device or a spinning top, experiences an external force that causes its axis to tilt. This external force can be gravity, torque, or magnetic force, among others. As a result, the body's axis starts tracing out a circular path, causing the object to precess.

    In astronomy, precession refers specifically to the gradual shift of Earth's rotational axis over a period of approximately 26,000 years. This motion is due to the gravitational influences of the Moon and the Sun on Earth's equatorial bulge. The precession of Earth's axis causes the position of the celestial poles to change slowly, leading to a shift in the orientation of Earth's axis with respect to the stars.

    Precession plays a significant role in various scientific disciplines, including physics, astronomy, and engineering. Understanding precession is crucial for developing accurate models and predictions of the behavior of rotating bodies, planetary motion, and celestial phenomena.

  2. The act of going before; precession of the equinoxes, the slow backward movement of the equinoctial points along the ecliptic from east to west, amounting to about 50" in the year.

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

Common Misspellings for PRECESSION

Etymology of PRECESSION

The word precession derives from the Latin word prae meaning before or in front of, and the Latin word cedere meaning to go or to move. Therefore, the word precession literally means to go before or to move in front of.

Similar spelling words for PRECESSION

Plural form of PRECESSION is PRECESSIONS

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Correct spelling for precession
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