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precession of the equinoxes

noun phrase

Definition of precession of the equinoxes

: a slow westward motion of the equinoxes along the ecliptic caused by the gravitational action of sun and moon upon the protuberant matter about the earth's equator

First Known Use of precession of the equinoxes

1621

in the meaning defined above

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Learn More about precession of the equinoxes

  1. Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about precession of the equinoxes

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