Definition of Ursa Major
: 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
Indulge Your Inner Word Nerd
Origin and Etymology of ursa major
Latin (genitive Ursae Majoris), literally, greater bear
First Known Use: circa 1627
URSA MAJOR Defined for English Language Learners
Ursa Major
playDefinition of Ursa Major for English Language Learners
-
: the group of stars in the northern sky that includes the stars that form the Big Dipper
Learn More about ursa major
-
See words that rhyme with Ursa Major Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about Ursa Major
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up Ursa Major? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!