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asterism
[as-tuh-riz-uhm]
noun
Astronomy.
a group of stars.
a constellation.
Mineralogy.a property of some crystallized minerals of showing a starlike luminous figure in transmitted light or, in a cabochon-cut stone, by reflected light.
three asterisks ( or ) printed to draw attention to a passage it precedes.
asterism
/ ˈæəˌɪə /
noun
three asterisks arranged in a triangle ( or ), to draw attention to the text that follows
a starlike effect seen in some minerals and gemstones when viewed by reflected or transmitted light
a cluster of stars, which may be a subset or a superset of a constellation
Other 51Թ Forms
- asterismal adjective
51Թ History and Origins
51Թ History and Origins
Origin of asterism1
Example Sentences
Ursa Major, also known as the Great Bear, is one of the most prominent northern constellations, and its main claim to fame is that it contains the Big Dipper, a highly recognizable asterism.
But this asterism—literally, a pattern of stars—is not just a pretty sight.
“And,” Hubert continued, “for the dimwit in the audience, an asterism is a prominent pattern or group of stars.”
The Sagittarius asterism is shaped like a teapot, and when it sets in the west, it gives a hint of pouring tea.
The Big Dipper isn't a constellation to them; it is an “asterism.”
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