The term “blue moon” is often used to describe a rare event, but what does it really mean? This article will explore the definition and meaning of blue moon, as well as its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences.
Definitions
A blue moon is commonly defined as the second full moon in a calendar month. This phenomenon occurs because the lunar cycle is approximately 29.5 days, while most months are 30 or 31 days long. As a result, there are occasionally two full moons in a single month, with the second one being referred to as a blue moon.
However, this definition is a relatively recent development. Historically, a blue moon was simply the third full moon in a season that had four full moons. This definition dates back to the 16th century, when the term “blue moon” was used to describe something that was rare or absurd.
Origin
The origin of the term “blue moon” is unclear, but it may have been influenced by the phrase “once in a blue moon,” which has been used since the 19th century to describe something that happens very rarely. The phrase may have been inspired by the rare occurrence of a moon that appears blue in color, although this is a different phenomenon from a blue moon as defined above.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of blue moon varies slightly in different dictionaries. The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “the second full moon in a calendar month, or a rare occurrence.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “the second full moon in a calendar month or the third full moon in a season of four full moons.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “a second full moon that appears in the same calendar month, or a third full moon that appears in a season of four full moons.”
Associations
Blue moon is often associated with rarity, as well as with the color blue. It has also been used in popular culture to describe a romantic or melancholy mood, as in the song “Blue Moon” by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart.
Synonyms
Synonyms for blue moon include rare occurrence, unusual event, and once in a lifetime event.
Antonyms
Antonyms for blue moon include common occurrence, regular event, and frequent happening.
The same root words
The root words of blue moon are “blue” and “moon.” Blue refers to the color, while moon refers to Earth’s natural satellite.
Example Sentences
- “I only see my old friend once in a blue moon.”
- “The concert was a blue moon event that I’ll never forget.”
- “We’ll have a blue moon on Halloween this year.”
- “The third full moon of the season is sometimes called a blue moon.”
- “The sky turned blue during the lunar eclipse, giving the moon a blue hue.”