new moon

American  

noun

1. the moon either when in conjunction with the sun or soon after, being either invisible or visible only as a slender crescent.

2. the phase of the moon at this time.

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new moon British  

noun

1. the moon when it appears as a narrow waxing crescent

2. the time at which this occurs

3. astronomy one of the four principal phases of the moon, occurring when it lies between the earth and the sun

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new moon Scientific  

/ no̅o̅ /

1. The phase of the Moon that occurs when it passes between Earth and the Sun, making it either invisible or visible only as a thin crescent at sunset.

2. See more at moon Compare full moon

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Etymology

Origin of new moon

before 1000; Middle English; Old English

Compare meaning

How does new-moon compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• new moon vs. full moon

Example Sentences

New moon suit: Space fashion is getting an upgrade.

From New York Times • Mar. 16, 2023

Or, sometimes, the following: New moon, new moon, I hail thee!

From Popular Rhymes and Nursery Tales A Sequel to the Nursery Rhymes of England by Halliwell-Phillipps, J. O. (James Orchard)

New moon Tuesday next, and Monday we slips first into that snug little cave.

From Mary Anerley : a Yorkshire Tale by Blackmore, R. D. (Richard Doddridge)

New moon on Monday, or moon-day, is, of course, everywhere held a sign of good weather and luck.

From Moon Lore by Harley, Timothy

New moon, ; first quarter, ; full moon, ; last quarter, .

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