asterism

[ as-tuh-riz-uhm ]

noun

1. Astronomy.
   1. a group of stars.
   2. a constellation.
2. Mineralogy. a property of some crystallized minerals of showing a starlike luminous figure in transmitted light or, in a cabochon-cut stone, by reflected light.
3. three asterisks ( or ) printed to draw attention to a passage it precedes.

asterism

/ ˈæstəˌrɪzəm /

noun

1. three asterisks arranged in a triangle ( or ), to draw attention to the text that follows
2. a starlike effect seen in some minerals and gemstones when viewed by reflected or transmitted light
3. a cluster of stars, which may be a subset or a superset of a constellation

Other Words From

• aster·ismal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of asterism¹

1590–1600; < Greek asterism ( ós ) a marking with stars. See asterisk, -ism

Word History and Origins

Origin of asterism¹

C16: from Greek asterismos arrangement of constellations, from astēr star

Example Sentences

On p. 291, the asterism (three asterisks forming a triangle) is represented simply three asterisks.

From Project Gutenberg

In this noble asterism the figure of a giant ascending a slope can be readily discerned when the constellation is due south.

From Project Gutenberg

This asterism was confessedly first taken notice of by Perez or Perseus, by which is meant the Persians.

From Project Gutenberg

In memorial of this altar an Asterism was formed in the Sphere, denominated βωμος, ara.

From Project Gutenberg

The principal stars of this asterism are of the third magnitude, with the exception of α, which is of the first.

From Project Gutenberg