Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

heliacal

Adjective

həˈlaɪ.ə.kəl

Definition

Relating to the rising of a star, especially the sun, at dawn or the time it appears in the morning sky.

Examples

The heliacal rising of Sirius marks the flooding of the Nile in ancient Egypt.
In ancient civilizations, heliacal events were significant for agricultural calendars.
He noticed the heliacal position of Venus in the early morning sky.

Meaning

The term ‘heliacal’ is often used to describe the visibility of a star or planet at sunrise or its first appearance on the horizon, particularly when it is brightest and most prominent.