noun

syzygy

SIZ-i-jee

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Syzygy (noun) means an alignment of three celestial bodies in a straight line, such as occurs during an eclipse. Example: “The syzygy of the Sun, Earth and Moon produced a striking lunar eclipse.”

noun

An alignment of three celestial bodies in a straight line, such as occurs during an eclipse.

"The syzygy of the Sun, Earth and Moon produced a striking lunar eclipse."

"Astronomers tracked the coming syzygy of Jupiter and two of its moons."

"Tides run highest around a syzygy, when the Sun and Moon line up with the Earth."

In Jungian psychology, a pairing of opposite masculine and feminine archetypes said to link the conscious and unconscious mind.

"Jung wrote of the syzygy between anima and animus as key to psychological balance."

"The therapist explained the syzygy linking her patient's conscious choices to unconscious drives."

How to use syzygy

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSyzygy is the technical word for three space objects lining up in a row, as happens during an eclipse.

When to use it

Syzygy is a formal, technical term found mainly in astronomy and academic writing.

Memory tip

The unusual double y spelling comes straight from Greek, so it is worth memorising as a whole rather than sounding out by normal English rules.

Trace the full origin ↓

Common pairings

syzygy of the Sun, Earth and Moon lunar syzygy during a syzygy

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The _____ of the Sun, Earth and Moon produced a striking lunar eclipse.

Etymology

Syzygy comes from Late Latin syzygia, meaning a conjunction, which in turn derives from the Ancient Greek word for a union, yoke or pair. The word was adopted into English by 1847 for its astronomical meaning.

Origin: Ancient Greek

Frequently asked questions

What does syzygy mean in astronomy?

It describes three celestial bodies, such as the Sun, Earth and Moon, lining up in a straight line, as happens during an eclipse.

When did syzygy enter English?

It was recognised as an English word by 1847, in its astronomical sense.

What does syzygy mean in psychology?

Carl Jung used it for the pairing of opposite masculine and feminine archetypes within the psyche.

What is the meaning of syzygy?

"syzygy" (noun) means an alignment of three celestial bodies in a straight line, such as occurs during an eclipse.