Definition

Related to the stars or constellations; often used in astronomy to describe time or measurements based on the position of stars.

Example

Astronomers use sidereal time to track the positions of celestial objects.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of sidereal time?

I think so, but I’m not really sure what it means.

It's the time based on the position of stars, not the sun.

Oh, that makes sense! I guess that's important for astronomy.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Sidereal → It is formed from "sideralis" (from Latin, meaning of the stars) and the suffix "-al" (meaning pertaining to). The word "sidereal" refers to something that is related to or determined by the stars.

Memory Tip

Think of the Latin word for stars, 'sideralis', to remember that 'sidereal' means related to the stars.

Visually Confused Words