Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A specific line of latitude: The Tropic of Capricorn is an imaginary line that circles the Earth at approximately 23.5 degrees south of the Equator. It is the southernmost point where the sun can appear directly overhead at noon.

Usage

• The term is used as a specific geographic and astronomical reference point. It is always capitalized as it is a proper noun.
• It is one of the five major circles of latitude that mark maps of the Earth, along with the Equator, the Tropic of Cancer, the Arctic Circle, and the Antarctic Circle.

Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The Tropic of Capricorn passes through countries like Australia, Chile, and Madagascar.
  • When the sun is directly over the Tropic of Capricorn, it marks the December solstice, which is the beginning of summer in the Southern Hemisphere.

Advanced Usage

• "South of the Tropic of Capricorn": Referring to the geographical region between this line and the Antarctic Circle.
  • The climate south of the Tropic of Capricorn is generally temperate.

Variants and Related Words

• Tropic (noun): Either of the two lines of latitude (the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn) that mark the boundaries of the Torrid Zone.
  • The region between the tropics is known for its warm climate.
• Tropical (adjective): Relating to or situated in the region between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn.
  • They went on vacation to a tropical island.

Synonyms

• Southern tropic: A less common synonym that explicitly references its location.
• 23.5° S latitude: The precise coordinate description.

Related Concepts

• Tropic of Cancer: The corresponding line of latitude approximately 23.5 degrees north of the Equator.
• Solstice: An astronomical event that occurs when the sun reaches its highest or lowest point in the sky at noon, marked by the sun's direct rays striking the Tropics.

Noun

1. a line of latitude about 23 degrees to the south of the equator