superior conjunction

noun, Astronomy.

the alignment of an inferior planet and the sun in which the planet is at the far side of the sun from the earth.

Compare inferior conjunction.

Origin of superior conjunction

1825-1835

First recorded in 1825-35

Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2017.
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Examples from the Web for superior conjunction

Historical Examples

Mercury and Venus have each two conjunctions, the inferior and the superior conjunction.

Letters on Astronomy Denison Olmsted
Its apparent diameter varies between 4½″ in superior conjunction to 13″ in inferior conjunction.

The Story of the Solar System George F. Chambers
When the inferior planet is on the far side of the sun from us, it is said to be in superior conjunction.

Astronomy of To-day Cecil G. Dolmage
Its apparent diameter varies between 9½″ in superior conjunction, and 62″ in inferior conjunction.

The Story of the Solar System George F. Chambers

superior conjunction in Science

superior conjunction

-pîr'ē-ər)
See under conjunction.

The American Heritage® Science Dictionary
Copyright © 2002. Published by Houghton Mifflin. All rights reserved.
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