Equinox
noun /ˈiː.kwɪ.nɒks/ — The twice-yearly moment when day and night are equal
Definition
Either of the two times each year when the sun crosses the celestial equator, making night and day of approximately equal length. The balance point of the year.
Beyond the definition
The moment of perfect balance between light and dark — not as a permanent state, but as a threshold: after the equinox, things tip one way or the other.
Origin & history
From Latin 'aequinoctium' — 'aequus' (equal) + 'nox' (night). The night of equality.
Example sentences
Illustrative sentences for learning, not verified community posts or sourced quotations.
At the spring equinox, they planted — not because the calendar said to, but because the light said so.
The equinox is one of those calendar moments that actually corresponds to something felt.
The autumn equinox marks not just a balance but a tipping — from now, the nights get longer.
How to use it
This entry uses a noun. Follow the examples for articles and singular or plural forms; not every noun takes “a” or “an.”
Choose “Equinox” when the meaning fits your context: Either of the two times each year when the sun crosses the celestial equator, making night and day of approximately equal length. The balance point of the year.
Synonyms
balance point, equal day, turning
Antonyms
Related words
Questions about this word
What does "Equinox" mean?
Equinox is noun meaning: The twice-yearly moment when day and night are equal. Either of the two times each year when the sun crosses the celestial equator, making night and day of approximately equal length. The balance point of the year.
Where does the word "Equinox" come from?
From Latin 'aequinoctium' — 'aequus' (equal) + 'nox' (night). The night of equality.