VERNAL EQUINOX Meaning and
Definition
-
The vernal equinox refers to one of the two moments in a year when the sun is positioned directly above the equator, resulting in almost equal lengths of day and night worldwide. It marks the beginning of spring in the northern hemisphere and autumn in the southern hemisphere. The term "vernal" comes from the Latin word "vernalis," meaning "of spring," while "equinox" derives from the Latin words "aequus," meaning "equal," and "nox," meaning "night." Together, they signify the period when the plane of the Earth's equator passes through the center of the sun's disk.
During the vernal equinox, which typically occurs around March 20 or 21 in the northern hemisphere, the tilt of the Earth's axis neither tilts towards nor away from the sun. As a result, day and night durations are approximately equal in length globally. This astronomical event holds significance in different cultures, often celebrated as a time of renewal and rebirth, symbolizing the arrival of spring and the rejuvenation of nature.
Notably, the vernal equinox serves as an astronomical reference point for determining the seasons and constructing calendars. Beyond its scientific implications, it also carries cultural and spiritual significance, with various traditions and rituals associated with the transition from winter to spring.
-
With respect to the northern hemisphere, the period when the sun crosses from the south to the north of the equinoctial, about March 21st.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for VERNAL EQUINOX
- cernal equinox
- bernal equinox
- gernal equinox
- fernal equinox
- vwrnal equinox
- vsrnal equinox
- vdrnal equinox
- vrrnal equinox
- v4rnal equinox
- v3rnal equinox
- veenal equinox
- vednal equinox
- vefnal equinox
- vetnal equinox
- ve5nal equinox
- ve4nal equinox
- verbal equinox
- vermal equinox
- verjal equinox
Etymology of VERNAL EQUINOX
The word "vernal" is derived from the Latin word "vernalis", which means "of the spring". The word "equinox" has Latin origins as well, derived from "aequinoctium", which combines "aequus" meaning "equal" and "nox" meaning "night". Therefore, the term "vernal equinox" refers to the time of year when day and night are approximately equal in length and marks the beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere.
