noun
Uncommon
equator
ih-KWAY-tuh
Equator (noun) means the imaginary line around the middle of the Earth, equally distant from the North and South Poles, dividing it into two hemispheres. Example: “The country straddles the equator, with parts in both hemispheres.”
noun
1
The imaginary line around the middle of the Earth, equally distant from the North and South Poles, dividing it into two hemispheres.
"Baishui is about as close to the equator as Tampa, Florida."
— VOA Learning English > China's Melting Glacier Brings Visitors, Adds to Climate Concerns (2018)
"The country straddles the equator, with parts in both hemispheres."
"Temperatures near the equator stay warm all year round."
How to use equator
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe imaginary belt around the middle of the Earth that splits it into a northern and southern half.
Common pairings
cross the equator
near the equator
north of the equator
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like equator.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- equators
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The country straddles the _____, with parts in both hemispheres.
Etymology
From Late Latin (circulus) aequator, "the equalizer (of day and night)."
Rhymes for equator
See all rhymes for equator →Frequently asked questions
What does “equator” mean?
The word “equator” means the imaginary line around the middle of the Earth, equally distant from the North and South Poles, dividing it into two hemispheres. In plain terms, the imaginary belt around the middle of the Earth that splits it into a northern and southern half.
How do you pronounce “equator”?
“Equator” is pronounced ih-KWAY-tuh (/ɪˈkweɪ.tɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “equator” in a sentence?
Here is “equator” used in a sentence: “The country straddles the equator, with parts in both hemispheres.”
What part of speech is “equator”?
“Equator” is a noun.
Where does the word “equator” come from?
The word “equator” comes from Late Latin. From Late Latin (circulus) aequator, "the equalizer (of day and night).".
Is “equator” a common word?
“Equator” is an uncommon word in modern English.
