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noun Uncommon

constellation

kon-stuh-LAY-shuhn

Constellation (noun) means a recognized pattern or group of stars in the sky, often named after a mythological figure or shape. Example: “Orion is one of the easiest constellations to spot in winter.”

noun
1
A recognized pattern or group of stars in the sky, often named after a mythological figure or shape.
"Orion is one of the easiest constellations to spot in winter."
"Ancient sailors used constellations to navigate the open sea."
2
A group of related things, ideas, or people considered together.
"The report described a constellation of factors behind the company's collapse."
3
A group of satellites working together for the same purpose.
"The company launched a new constellation of satellites to provide global internet."

How to use constellation

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA pattern of stars, or by extension, any cluster of related things.

Common pairings
a constellation of stars a constellation of problems satellite constellation

Word forms

constellations plural

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Orion is one of the easiest _____ to spot in winter.

Etymology

From Latin constellatio, "a grouping of stars," from con- ("together") + stella ("star").

Origin: Latin

Related words

Rhymes for constellation

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Frequently asked questions

What does “constellation” mean?

The word “constellation” means a recognized pattern or group of stars in the sky, often named after a mythological figure or shape. In plain terms, a pattern of stars, or by extension, any cluster of related things.

How do you pronounce “constellation”?

“Constellation” is pronounced kon-stuh-LAY-shuhn (/ˌkɑn.stəˈleɪ.ʃən/ in IPA).

How do you use “constellation” in a sentence?

Here is “constellation” used in a sentence: “Orion is one of the easiest constellations to spot in winter.”

What part of speech is “constellation”?

“Constellation” is a noun.

Where does the word “constellation” come from?

The word “constellation” comes from Latin. From Latin constellatio, "a grouping of stars," from con- ("together") + stella ("star").

Is “constellation” a common word?

“Constellation” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “constellation” have?

“Constellation” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a recognized pattern or group of stars in the sky, often named after a mythological figure or shape.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial