planisphere

[ plan-uh-sfeer, pley-nuh- ]

noun

1. a map of half or more of the celestial sphere with a device for indicating the part of a given location visible at a given time.
2. a projection or representation of the whole or a part of a sphere on a plane.

planisphere

/ ˌplænɪˈsfɛrɪk; ˈplænɪˌsfɪə /

noun

1. a projection or representation of all or part of a sphere on a plane surface, such as a polar projection of the celestial sphere onto a chart

Derived Forms

• planispheric, adjective

Other Words From

• plan·i·spher·i·cal [plan-, uh, -, sfer, -i-k, uh, l, -, sfeer, -, pley-n, uh, -], plani·spheric plan·i·spher·al [plan-i-, sfeer, -, uh, l, pley-n, uh, -], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of planisphere¹

1350–1400; plani- + sphere; replacing Middle English planisperie < Medieval Latin plānisphaerium

Word History and Origins

Origin of planisphere¹

C14: from Medieval Latin plānisphaerium, from Latin plānus flat + Greek sphaira globe

Example Sentences

It may be found on the outside, or square planisphere, of the zodiac of the Temple of Denderah.

From Project Gutenberg

However, I resolved for the future to make my observations without light, and consult my planisphere in the house.

From Project Gutenberg

The Tentyrian planisphere of the ancient Egyptians represents the virgin and child rising out of a lotus flower.

From Project Gutenberg

His is another planisphere, of the same school of map-makers.

From Project Gutenberg

Gliding among them, old Leviathan swam as of yore; was there swimming in that planisphere, centuries before Solomon was cradled.

From Project Gutenberg