Definition

Proper noun A well-known constellation in the northern celestial hemisphere, easily recognizable by its distinctive shape. It is notable for containing the asterism known as the Big Dipper or the Plough, and for its stars that are used to locate Polaris, the North Star.

Usage

• is always capitalized as it is the proper name of a specific constellation. It is typically used with the definite article "the".
• Example: "On a clear night, you can see the Great Bear high in the northern sky."
• Example: "The two pointer stars in the Great Bear point directly to Polaris."

Advanced Usage

• In mythology and literature, is often associated with the nymph Callisto from Greek mythology, who was transformed into a bear and placed in the sky.
• Example: "The ancient myth explains the origin of the Great Bear in the heavens."

Variants and Related Words

• Ursa Major: The Latin (scientific) name for the Great Bear constellation. These terms are synonymous.
• The Big Dipper / The Plough: These refer to the most prominent asterism (a recognizable pattern of stars) within the Great Bear constellation. The Big Dipper forms the bear's hindquarters and tail.
• Ursa Minor (Little Bear): The smaller constellation that contains Polaris (the North Star). It is located near Ursa Major.

Synonyms

• Ursa Major

Related Phrases

• To navigate by the Great Bear: To use the stars of this constellation, particularly the Big Dipper, to find direction (specifically, north).
  • Example: "Before compasses, sailors would often navigate by the Great Bear."

Noun

1. a constellation outside the zodiac that rotates around the North Star