Solstice
/ˈsɒl.stɪs/noun
Either of the two points in the year where the sun reaches its highest or lowest point in the sky at noon.
Did you know?In ancient times, solstices were celebrated as powerful times for rituals, believed to influence the fertility of the earth and the cycles of life.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
solstitium
“The point where the sun stands still in the sky.”
Old French
Old French
solstice
“The time of year when the sun stands still, marking seasonal changes.”
Middle English
Middle English
solstice
“The period in the year when the sun's path appears to stop.”
Modern English
English
solstice
“The astronomical event marking the longest and shortest days of the year.”