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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.
"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 notes

In 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

Word forms

equators plural

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Test yourself on “equator” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

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)."

Origin: Late Latin

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.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial