asterism

noun

as·​ter·​ism ˈa-stə-ˌri-zəm How to pronounce asterism (audio)
1
a
: a group of stars that form a pattern in the night sky
On October evenings, when the trees have shed their leaves and stars become visible through the twigs, our best-known asterism, the Big Dipper, passes under the north pole.George Lovi

Note: The term asterism does not now usually refer to a constellation but to a star pattern that makes up part of a constellation or that includes stars from more than one constellation.

b
: a small group of stars
2
: a star-shaped figure exhibited by some crystals by reflected light (as in a star sapphire) or by transmitted light (as in some mica)

Examples of asterism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web This asterism, located within the Taurus constellation, is a fan favorite among stargazers. Stephanie Vermillion, Travel + Leisure, 1 Feb. 2024 Also during evening hours this month, three bright stars form an asterism known as the summer triangle. Geoff Chester, Washington Post, 1 Sep. 2023 But this asterism—literally, a pattern of stars—is not just a pretty sight. Phil Plait, Scientific American, 14 July 2023 Both the asterism and the seven daughters of Atlas shine against a backdrop of exquisite enamel. Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 28 June 2023 See all Example Sentences for asterism 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'asterism.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Greek asterísmos, from asterízein "to arrange in constellations" (from aster-, astḗr "star" + -izein -ize) + -ismos -ism — more at star entry 1

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of asterism was in 1598

Dictionary Entries Near asterism

Cite this Entry

“Asterism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/asterism. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

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