Ursa Major

noun

Ur·​sa Ma·​jor ˌər-sə-ˈmā-jər 

: a constellation that is the most conspicuous of the northern constellations, is situated near the north pole of the heavens, and contains the stars forming the Big Dipper two of which are in a line indicating the direction of the North Star

called also Great Bear

Examples of Ursa Major in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The constellation hovers just above Ursa Major and Ursa Minor (the Big Dipper and Little Dipper, respectively). —Stephanie Vermillion, Travel + Leisure, 7 Oct. 2024

Although General Dynamics has kept its interest in the solid rocket motor market quiet until now, several defense tech startups, such as Ursa Major Technologies, Anduril, and X-Bow Systems, have announced plans to enter the market. —Stephen Clark, Ars Technica, 16 Aug. 2024

Our starting point will be very easy to find: the Big Dipper, the rear end and tail of the constellation Ursa Major, the Big Bear. —Mike Lynch, Twin Cities, 12 May 2024

Arcturus is Greek for 'bear guard,' which is fitting because it's located in line with the tail of the constellation Ursa Major, or great bear. —Elizabeth Gamillo, Discover Magazine, 5 Mar. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin (genitive Ursae Majoris), literally, greater bear

First Known Use

circa 1627, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

Ursa Major

noun

Ur·​sa Ma·​jor ˌər-sə-ˈmā-jər 

: the northern group of stars that is the easiest to pick out, is located near the north pole of the heavens, and contains the stars forming the Big Dipper two of which are in a line pointing in the direction of the North Star

called also Great Bear