inferior conjunction

American  

[in-feer-ee-er kuhn-juhngk-shuhn] / ɪnˈfɪər i ər kənˈdʒʌŋk ʃən /

noun

Astronomy.

1. the alignment of an inferior planet between the sun and the earth.

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inferior conjunction Scientific  

/ ĭn-fîr′ē-ər /

1. See under conjunction

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Etymology

Origin of inferior conjunction

First recorded in 1825–35

Example Sentences

This bright and effervescent neighbor — at -4.2 magnitude, according to the United States Naval Observatory — reaches inferior conjunction on Jan. 8, which means that Venus moves between the sun and Earth.

From Washington Post • Jan. 1, 2022

The few days near each inferior conjunction are especially to be taken advantage of.

From Side-Lights on Astronomy and Kindred Fields of Popular Science by Newcomb, Simon

When we quit the earth," Edmund answered, "Venus was rapidly approaching inferior conjunction.

From A Columbus of Space by Serviss, Garrett Putman

After the first week in March of this year therefore Mercury will again be approaching inferior conjunction, and again will pass at her closest point to the earth.

From The Fire People by Cummings, Ray

This unusual brightness occurs when Venus is about five weeks before or after her inferior conjunction, and also nearest overhead by being north of the sun.

From Recreations in Astronomy With Directions for Practical Experiments and Telescopic Work by Warren, Henry White