absolute magnitude

American  

noun

Astronomy.

1. the magnitude of a star as it would appear to a hypothetical observer at a distance of 10 parsecs or 32.6 light-years.

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absolute magnitude British  

noun

1. the apparent magnitude a given star would have if it were situated at a distance of 10 parsecs (32.6 light years) from the earth

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absolute magnitude Scientific  

1. See under at magnitude

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Etymology

Origin of absolute magnitude

First recorded in 1900–05

Compare meaning

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

• apparent magnitude vs. absolute magnitude

Example Sentences

What is the absolute magnitude of the near stars that are not contained in table?

From Lectures on Stellar Statistics by Charlier, Carl Vilhelm Ludvig

When we say "absolute magnitude," we do not mean a magnitude which stands out of all relations to other facts in the universe.

From Social Value A Study in Economic Theory Critical and Constructive by Anderson, Benjamin M. (Benjamin McAlester)

This plant obviously was chosen by the Lord, not on account of its absolute magnitude, but because it was, and was recognized to be, a striking instance of increase from very small to very great.

From Jesus the Christ A Study of the Messiah and His Mission According to Holy Scriptures Both Ancient and Modern by Talmage, James Edward

The absolute magnitude of my misfortune only loomed upon me by degrees.

From O'Conors of Castle Conor by Trollope, Anthony

Well, first one is struck with the absolute magnitude assigned to T. The figures seem vastly greater than would have been anticipated.

From The Value of Money by Anderson, Benjamin M.