constellation
/,kɔnstə'leiʃn/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A group of stars forming a recognizable pattern that is traditionally named after its apparent form or a mythological figure: A "constellation" is a specific area of the celestial sphere containing a distinctive pattern of stars, as officially defined by the International Astronomical Union.
- A group or configuration of related people, things, or qualities: "Constellation" can metaphorically describe any notable gathering or arrangement of interconnected elements.
Examples of Usage
- Noun:
- Orion is one of the most easily recognizable constellations in the night sky.
- The company's leadership is a constellation of experienced executives from various industries.
Advanced Usage
- "Constellation of symptoms": In medicine, this phrase describes a group of symptoms that commonly occur together and characterize a specific disease or condition.
- The patient presented with the classic constellation of symptoms for the flu.
Variants and Related Words
- Constellate (verb): To form or cause to form into a cluster or group; to scatter with or as if with stars.
- Brilliant ideas began to constellate in her mind.
- Constellatory (adj): Pertaining to or resembling a constellation. (This is a rare, technical term).
Synonyms
- Asterism: A prominent pattern or group of stars, often forming part of a larger constellation.
- Configuration: An arrangement of elements in a particular form, figure, or combination.
- Array: An impressive display or range of a particular type of thing.
Idioms and Phrases
- "A constellation of factors": A common phrase used to indicate that an outcome is the result of multiple interconnected causes or influences.
- The economic crisis was caused by a complex constellation of factors.
Noun
- a configuration of stars as seen from the earth
- an arrangement of parts or elements
- the outcome depends on the configuration of influences at the time