Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • The sixth planet from the Sun: A gas giant planet in our solar system, famous for its prominent and extensive ring system composed of ice particles, rock, and dust.
   • (Roman mythology) The god of agriculture and time: In Roman mythology, Saturn is the god of agriculture, liberation, and time, often identified with the Greek god Cronus.

Usage

• As a planet:
  • Saturn is easily recognizable by its beautiful rings.
  • Scientists study Saturn's moons to understand more about the solar system.
• In mythology/culture:
  • The festival of Saturnalia was held in honor of the god Saturn.
  • The day Saturday is named after Saturn.

Advanced Usage

• "Saturnine" (adj): Having a gloomy, slow, or taciturn temperament. This meaning derives from the ancient astrological belief that those born under the influence of the planet Saturn had a melancholic disposition.
  • His saturnine demeanor made him seem unapproachable.

Variants and Related Words

• Saturnian (adj): Pertaining to the planet Saturn or to a supposed ancient golden age (associated with the god Saturn).
  • The probe sent back Saturnian data.
• Saturnalia (n): The ancient Roman festival in honor of Saturn, celebrated in December; by extension, a period of unrestrained revelry.
  • The office party turned into a complete saturnalia.

Synonyms

• The Ringed Planet: A common epithet for the planet Saturn.
• Cronus (Kronos): The Greek counterpart of the god Saturn.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• "Return of Saturn": An astrological concept referring to a period of major life evaluation and restructuring that occurs around the ages of 28-30 and 58-60, coinciding with Saturn's orbit.
  • She felt her return of Saturn was a time for serious career decisions.

Noun

1. (Roman mythology) god of agriculture and vegetation; counterpart of Greek Cronus
   • Saturday is Saturn's Day
2. a giant planet that is surrounded by three planar concentric rings of ice particles; the 6th planet from the sun