Definition

Noun: - The time at which the Moon appears as a narrow waxing crescent: This term refers to the specific moment or period in the lunar cycle when the Moon is first visible as a thin, illuminated sliver in the sky after being completely dark (new moon). It marks the beginning of the waxing crescent phase.

Usage

• This term is used in astronomy, astrology, and general descriptions of lunar cycles to denote the start of the Moon's visible growth.
• It often appears in scientific contexts, calendars, and almanacs.
• Example:

Examples

Advanced Usage

• "The first sighting of the new phase of the moon": This phrase emphasizes the act of visually observing the crescent.
  • The religious holiday is declared after the first sighting of the new phase of the moon.

Variants and Related Words

• New Moon (n): The phase of the moon when it is in conjunction with the sun and invisible from earth, or the crescent that becomes visible shortly thereafter. While closely related, "new moon" can refer to the moment of conjunction (invisible moon), whereas "new phase of the moon" specifically denotes the time when the crescent becomes visible.
• Waxing Crescent (n): The phase of the moon between the new moon and the first quarter, during which the visible illuminated portion is increasing. This is the phase that begins with the "new phase of the moon."
• Lunar Phase (n): Any of the cyclical shapes of the illuminated portion of the Moon as seen from Earth.

Synonyms

• Lunar inception (formal/rare)
• Crescent moon (though this can refer to the shape at any time, not exclusively the very first appearance)

Related Phrases

• "To moonwatch": To observe the moon and its phases.
  • They gathered to moonwatch for the new phase of the moon.

Noun

1. the time at which the Moon appears as a narrow waxing crescent