heliostat

[ hee-lee-uh-stat ]

noun

1. an instrument consisting of a mirror moved by clockwork, for reflecting the sun's rays in a fixed direction.

heliostat

/ ˈhiːlɪəʊˌstæt /

noun

1. an astronomical instrument used to reflect the light of the sun in a constant direction

Derived Forms

• ˌhelioˈstatic, adjective

Other Words From

• heli·o·static adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of heliostat¹

From the New Latin word heliostata, dating back to 1740–50. See helio-, -stat

Example Sentences

In a short time we might earnestly wish for a centrifugal apparatus or a heliostat.

From Project Gutenberg

Images of the sun are thrown into the observatory by an ingenious instrument run by clockwork, and called a heliostat.

From Project Gutenberg

In the absence of a heliostat the latter was the more convenient.

From Project Gutenberg

It is a good object by which to adjust my hand heliostat, which I describe below.

From Project Gutenberg

In the absence of a heliostat it is more convenient to obtain a point of light with the aid of a lens of short focus.

From Project Gutenberg