cynosure
pronunciation
How to pronounce cynosure in British English:
UK [ˈsɪnəzjʊə(r)]
How to pronounce cynosure in American English:
US [ˈsaɪnəʃʊr]
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- Noun:
- something that provides guidance (as Polaris guides mariners)
- something that strongly attracts attention and admiration
Word Origin
- cynosure (n.)
- 1590s, from Middle French cynosure (16c.), from Latin Cynosura, literally "dog's tail," the constellation (now Ursa Minor) containing the North Star, the focus of navigation, from Greek kynosoura, literally "dog's tail," from kyon (genitive kynos; see canine) + oura "tail" (see arse).
Example
- 1. The national pavilion of the host country has always been a cynosure .
- 2. Her mind delighted itself with scenes of luxury and refinement , situations in which she was the cynosure of all eyes , the arbiter of all fates .
- 3. Meadows trim with daisies pied , shallow brooks and rivers wide ; towers and battlements it sees bosom 'd high in tufted trees , where perhaps some beauty lies , the cynosure of neighboring eyes --- john milton , english poet , author , polemicist .