An armillary sphere is a complex model of the celestial sphere that represents the positions of the stars, planets, and other heavenly bodies. It consists of a framework of rings or hoops that are mounted on an axis, which represents the axis of the Earth. The armillary sphere is one of the oldest and most important astronomical instruments, which has been used for centuries to study the heavens and to make astronomical observations.
Definitions
An armillary sphere is a model of the celestial sphere, consisting of a framework of rings or hoops mounted on an axis, representing the positions of the stars, planets, and other heavenly bodies. It is a complex astronomical instrument that has been used for centuries to study the heavens and to make astronomical observations.
Origin
The armillary sphere has been used by astronomers and astrologers for thousands of years. The earliest known armillary spheres were made in ancient Greece, around the 3rd century BC. The Greeks used the armillary sphere to study the movements of the stars and planets, and to make astronomical observations. The armillary sphere was also used by the Chinese, the Arabs, and the Europeans, who developed their own versions of the instrument.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, an armillary sphere is “a model of the celestial sphere, consisting of a framework of rings or hoops mounted on an axis, representing the positions of the stars, planets, and other heavenly bodies.” The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines an armillary sphere as “an instrument consisting of a framework of rings representing the great circles of the celestial sphere, and having an attached telescope for sighting celestial objects.”
Associations
The armillary sphere is associated with astronomy, astrology, and navigation. It was used by astronomers to study the heavens and to make astronomical observations. It was also used by astrologers to make predictions about the future based on the positions of the stars and planets. The armillary sphere was also used by navigators to determine their position at sea by observing the positions of the stars.
Synonyms
Synonyms for armillary sphere include celestial sphere, astrolabe, and planisphere.
Antonyms
Antonyms for armillary sphere include flat earth, geocentric model, and heliocentric model.
The same root words
The word “armillary” comes from the Latin word “armilla,” which means “bracelet” or “ring.” The word “sphere” comes from the Greek word “sphaira,” which means “ball” or “globe.”
Example Sentences
- The astronomer used an armillary sphere to study the positions of the stars and planets.
- The astrologer used an armillary sphere to make predictions about the future based on the positions of the stars and planets.
- The navigator used an armillary sphere to determine their position at sea by observing the positions of the stars.
- The armillary sphere is a complex astronomical instrument that has been used for centuries to study the heavens and to make astronomical observations.