Definition

1. Noun:
   • A line of latitude at the north or south poles: A "polar circle" is one of two specific parallels of latitude on the Earth's surface. These are the Arctic Circle (in the Northern Hemisphere) and the Antarctic Circle (in the Southern Hemisphere). They mark the areas where, for at least one day a year, the sun does not set (midnight sun) or does not rise (polar night).

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The Arctic Circle is the northern polar circle.
  • The Antarctic Circle is the southern polar circle.
  • Regions inside the polar circle experience extreme variations in daylight.

Advanced Usage

• "The polar circles": This plural form refers to both the Arctic and Antarctic Circles collectively.
  • The polar circles are defined by the tilt of the Earth's axis.

Variants and Related Words

• Arctic Circle (n): The specific polar circle located at approximately 66°33′49.8″ north of the Equator.
• Antarctic Circle (n): The specific polar circle located at approximately 66°33′49.8″ south of the Equator.
• Polar region (n): The area within or near the polar circles, characterized by a cold climate.

Synonyms

• Circle of latitude: A general term for any parallel of latitude, which includes the polar circles.
• Parallel: A line of latitude.

Related Phrases

• "North of the Arctic Circle" / "South of the Antarctic Circle": Phrases describing a location relative to a polar circle.
  • Tromsø, Norway, is located north of the Arctic Circle.

Noun

1. a line of latitude at the north or south poles