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anthelion

noun
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ant·​he·​li·​on | \ (ˈ)ant¦hēlyən, (ˈ)an¦thē-, -lēən \
plural anthelia\ -​yə , -​ēə \ or anthelions

Definition of anthelion

: the brightish white halolike spot appearing occasionally on the parhelic circle opposite the sun

— called also antisun, countersun

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First Known Use of anthelion

1670, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for anthelion

Greek anthēlion, from neuter of anthēlios, alteration of antēlios opposite the sun, from anti- anti- entry 1 + hēlios sun

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The first known use of anthelion was in 1670

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Cite this Entry

“Anthelion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/anthelion. Accessed 14 Jun. 2021.

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