Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
equinox
noun
/ˈiːkwɪnɒks/
Definition
The equinox is the moment in time when the plane of Earth’s equator passes through the center of the Sun, resulting in approximately equal durations of day and night across the planet.
Examples
- The autumn equinox signals the beginning of fall in the Northern Hemisphere.
- During the equinox, many cultures celebrate festivals that honor the balance of light and dark.
- On the day of the equinox, sunrise and sunset occur at nearly the same time everywhere on Earth.
Meaning
The term ‘equinox’ comes from Latin, meaning ‘equal night.’ It refers to two specific times each year when day and night are of roughly equal length, marking the change of seasons.
Synonyms
- solstice
- balance point
- seasonal change
