sidereal

[ sahy-deer-ee-uhl ]

adjective

, Astronomy.

1. determined by or from the stars:

   sidereal time.

2. of or relating to the stars.

sidereal

/ saɪˈdɪərɪəl /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or involving the stars
2. determined with reference to one or more stars

   the sidereal day

sidereal

/ sī-dîr′ē-əl /

1. Relating to the stars or constellations.
2. Measured with respect to the background of fixed stars instead of the Sun.

Derived Forms

• siˈdereally, adverb

Other Words From

• si·dere·al·ly adverb
• nonsi·dere·al adjective
• unsi·dere·al adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of sidereal¹

1625–35; < Latin sīdere ( us ) of, belonging to the stars ( sīder-, stem of sīdus star, constellation + -eus adj. suffix) + -al ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of sidereal¹

C17: from Latin sīdereus, from sīdus a star, a constellation

Example Sentences

Let us put aside for a moment planetary and sidereal visions, which appear more subjective than objective.

From Project Gutenberg

The planetary and sidereal systems which constitute the universe are at different degrees of organization and advancement.

From Project Gutenberg

Antares is much further down in the sky, in relation to the arbitrary sidereal axis, and it's a deeper red.

From Project Gutenberg

If the clock gains or loses with respect to sidereal time, take this into account in the value of U.

From Project Gutenberg

When the hour circle passing through Sirius coincides with the meridian, the sidereal time is 6h.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• glittering
• luminous
• sparkling
• stellar