Definition

Dark areas on the sun's surface that are cooler than the surrounding areas and are linked to magnetic activity.

Example

Astronomers observed several sunspots through their telescope during the solar event.

Conversation

Did you see that article about the latest sunspot activity?

Yeah, it's fascinating how those dark spots can affect the Earth's climate.

I never knew sunspots could have such an impact on our weather patterns!

Me neither! It's amazing how connected everything is in our solar system.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Sunspot → It is formed from "sun" (from Old English "sunne", meaning the star at the center of our solar system) and "spot" (from Old English "spon", meaning a mark or stain). A sunspot refers to a dark area on the surface of the sun, indicating a cooler region compared to its surroundings.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'sun' as the star in our sky and 'spot' as a mark on its surface — a sunspot is a mark on the sun.

Visually Confused Words