Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
cepheid
noun
/ˈsɛfiːɪd/
Definition
A type of variable star that pulsates in a regular cycle, causing changes in brightness.
Examples
- The star Delta Cephei is a well-known cepheid.
- Astronomers use cepheids to determine the scale of the universe.
Meaning
Cepheids are important for measuring astronomical distances.
Synonyms
- variable star
- pulsating star
