Praesepe

American  

[pri-see-pee, prahy-suh-pee] / prɪˈsi pi, ˈpraɪ səˌpi /

noun

Astronomy.

1. an open star cluster in the center of the constellation Cancer, visible to the naked eye.

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Praesepe British  

/ praɪˈsiːpɪ /

noun

1. an open cluster of several hundred stars in the constellation Cancer, visible to the naked eye as a hazy patch of light

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Etymology

Origin of Praesepe

1650–60; < Latin praesēpe crib from which cattle or horses are fed, manger; the neighboring brighter stars Gamma and Delta Cancri ( Asellus Borealis and Asellus Australis ) were pictured as asses which fed from a manger

Example Sentences

Malcolm’s Missa ad Praesepe; anthems by Howells, Darke and Britten and traditional hymns and carols; with Trinity Baroque Orchestra.

From New York Times • Dec. 12, 2013

The disappearance of Praesepe in consequence of the condensation of vapour in the atmosphere was regarded by the ancients as a sure indication of approaching rain.

From The Astronomy of Milton's 'Paradise Lost' by Orchard, Thomas Nathaniel

The nebula Praesepe in Cancer, he was also able to resolve into a cluster of stars.

From The Astronomy of Milton's 'Paradise Lost' by Orchard, Thomas Nathaniel

The "Beehive," or cluster known as Praesepe in Cancer, and a double group in the sword-handle of Perseus, both just visible to the naked eye, are excellent examples of star clusters of the average type.

From Astronomy: The Science of the Heavenly Bodies by Todd, David Peck

The cluster Praesepe in Cancer is visible on a clear night to the unaided eye as a small nebula.

From The Astronomy of Milton's 'Paradise Lost' by Orchard, Thomas Nathaniel