Definition

A star that is used for navigation because it is always in the same position in the sky, often referred to as Polaris. It can also mean a guiding principle or center of attraction.

Example

In times of uncertainty, her values served as a polestar for making decisions.

Conversation

I read an interesting article about how people use the polestar in navigation.

Oh really? I didn't know it was still used today.

Yeah, they say it's like a guiding principle for finding direction.

That makes sense! Having a polestar must be really helpful.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Polestar → It is formed from "pole" (from Old English *pol*, meaning a long, slender object or a point of reference) and "star" (from Old English *steorra*, meaning celestial body). The word "polestar" refers to a star that serves as a point of reference for navigation, specifically the North Star.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'pole' as a point of reference and a 'star' as a celestial body — the polestar is the star that guides you.

Visually Confused Words