sidereal
Say it: sy-DEER-ee-uhl /saɪˈdɪəriəl/ · adjective
What “sidereal” means
Relating to the stars.
More precisely: Relating to the stars, or measured by them.
Example: “Astronomers use a sidereal day, about four minutes shorter than a normal one.”
When to use it
Use it in astronomy for things connected with stars or time measured by them, in a precise scientific tone.
Memory trick
Latin “sidus” means star: sidereal measurements look to the stars.
Similar words
stellar, astral, celestial
Where it comes from
Latin sidus, 'star'.
Quick check
An observatory measures time by tracking distant stars rather than the Sun. What kind of measurement is this?
sidereal or solar?
Show the answer
sidereal
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