Cygnus
/ˈsɪɡ.nəs/noun
A constellation named for its resemblance to a swan.
Did you know?In ancient mythology, Cygnus was often associated with transformation and the power of the divine, linking celestial navigation to deeper spiritual journeys.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*ḱwekwlos
“a circular figure, often used to describe the shape of swans or other birds in flight.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
κύκνος (kyknos)
“swan, often symbolizing grace and beauty.”
Latin
Latin
cygnus
“the Latin term for swan, used in classical descriptions of the heavens.”
16th Century
Latin
Cygnus (constellation)
“designated the constellation based on the shape of the swan in the night sky.”
Modern English
English
Cygnus
“the name of the constellation recognized in contemporary astronomy.”