syzygy
Say it: SIZ-ih-jee /ˈsɪzɪdʒi/ · noun
What “syzygy” means
Three objects in space lined up, like Sun, Moon and Earth.
More precisely: The alignment of three celestial bodies, such as the sun, moon and earth.
Example: “A solar eclipse happens during a syzygy of the sun, moon and earth.”
When to use it
Use it in astronomy when three celestial bodies line up, especially when explaining eclipses, in a technical tone.
Similar words
alignment, conjunction, pairing
Where it comes from
Greek suzugos, 'yoked together'.
Quick check
In a model, the Sun, Moon and Earth lie along one straight line. What is this alignment called?
an orbit or a syzygy?
Show the answer
a syzygy
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