Definition

A term used to refer to either of the two constellations named after bears, Ursa Major and Ursa Minor.

Example

In the night sky, you can find Ursa Major, which contains the Big Dipper.

Conversation

Did you know that the constellation has two main bears, one of them called Ursa Major?

Yeah, I remember learning about them in school!

It's fascinating how those stars form the shape of a bear.

I always thought it was amazing how ancient cultures named the stars after animals like Ursa.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Ursa** → The word 'ursa' comes from Latin 'ursa', meaning bear. It is used in astronomy to refer to constellations like Ursa Major and Ursa Minor, which are named for their resemblance to a bear. The term directly connects to the idea of a bear in the night sky.

Memory Tip

Think of the Latin word for bear, 'ursa', to remember that 'ursa' refers to constellations named after a bear.

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