Solstice
noun /ˈsɒlstɪs/ — The point in the year when the sun reaches its highest or lowest position — the longest or shortest day.
Definition
Either of the two times each year when the sun is at its greatest distance from the celestial equator — June's summer solstice (the longest day) and December's winter solstice (the shortest).
Beyond the definition
Solstice is not just an astronomical event — it is the year holding its breath. The moment of maximum or minimum, after which the balance tilts. Cultures throughout history have marked it with fire, ceremony, and vigil. It is the year's hinge.
Origin & history
Latin 'solstitium' — from 'sol' (sun) + 'sistere' (to stand still). At the solstice, the sun appears to stop its north-south movement and briefly stand still before reversing. A perfect etymology.
Example sentences
Illustrative sentences for learning, not verified community posts or sourced quotations.
She marked the winter solstice with candles — it felt like the right response to the darkest night.
They gathered at dawn on the summer solstice, as people always had.
After the solstice, the days would lengthen, though winter would deepen first.
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 “Solstice” when the meaning fits your context: Either of the two times each year when the sun is at its greatest distance from the celestial equator — June's summer solstice (the longest day) and December's winter solstice (the shortest).
Synonyms
turning point, midsummer, midwinter
Antonyms
Related words
Questions about this word
What does "Solstice" mean?
Solstice is noun meaning: The point in the year when the sun reaches its highest or lowest position — the longest or shortest day.. Either of the two times each year when the sun is at its greatest distance from the celestial equator — June's summer solstice (the longest day) and December's winter solstice (the shortest).
Where does the word "Solstice" come from?
Latin 'solstitium' — from 'sol' (sun) + 'sistere' (to stand still). At the solstice, the sun appears to stop its north-south movement and briefly stand still before reversing. A perfect etymology.