galactic pole

noun

: either of the two opposite points of the celestial sphere that are at the greatest average distance from the Milky Way and are located one in the constellation of Coma Berenices and the other in the constellation of Sculptor

called also respectively north galactic pole, south galactic pole

Word History

First Known Use

1848, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of galactic pole was in 1848

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near galactic pole

Cite this Entry

“Galactic pole.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/galactic%20pole. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!