constellation
pronunciation
How to pronounce constellation in British English:
UK [ˌkɒnstəˈleɪʃn]
How to pronounce constellation in American English:
US [ˌkɑːnstəˈleɪʃn]
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- Noun:
- an arrangement of parts or elements
- a configuration of stars as seen from the earth
Word Origin
- constellation (n.)
- early 14c., from Old French constellacion "constellation, conjuncture (of planets)," from Late Latin constellationem (nominative constellatio) "set with stars," from constellatus, from Latin com- "with" (see com-) + past participle of stellare "to shine," from stella "star" (see star). Originally in astrology, of position of planets ("stars") in regard to one another on a given day, usually one's birth day, as a determination of one's character. "I folwed ay myn inclinacioun/By vertu of my constillacioun" (Chaucer, "Wife's Prologue," c. 1386). Modern astronomical sense is from 1550s.
Example
- 1. Constellation rooms come with an alfresco terrace tub .
- 2. Rumors abound that they might be cooking up major changes to constellation .
- 3. Scattered dots seemed to form a picture like a constellation in the sky .
- 4. She wore a conspicuous red dress with stars in the form of a constellation .
- 5. While constellation is making its moves , china 's wine market continues to develop apace .