Leo Minor

noun

astronomy

: a small northern constellation that is visible between the constellations of Leo and Ursa Major and that is represented by the figure of a lion cub

With the addition of Leo Minor, Hevelius created a pride of celestial lions, and he also found room for another big cat in the stars. The area to the north and west of the two sky lions was also free of constellations, and Hevelius linked those stars together as Lynx.

—E. C. Krupp, Sky and Telescope, February 1995

Word History

First Known Use

1715, in the meaning defined above

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