summer solstice

noun

, Astronomy.

1. the solstice on or about June 21st that marks the beginning of summer in the Northern Hemisphere.

summer solstice

noun

1. the time at which the sun is at its northernmost point in the sky (southernmost point in the S hemisphere), appearing at noon at its highest altitude above the horizon. It occurs about June 21 (December 22 in the S hemisphere)
2. astronomy the point on the celestial sphere, opposite the winter solstice, at which the ecliptic is furthest north from the celestial equator. Right ascension: 6 hours; declination: 23.5°

summer solstice

/ sŭm′ər /

1. See under solstice

Word History and Origins

Origin of summer solstice¹

First recorded in 1540–50

Related Words

• summertime
• vacation