precession of the equinoxes

noun phrase

: a slow westward motion of the equinoxes along the ecliptic caused by the gravitational action of sun and moon upon the protuberant matter about the earth's equator

Examples of precession of the equinoxes in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
According to Benson, your sun sign won’t change with the shifting of the solstice, known as the precession of the equinoxes, however. Nicole Briese, Peoplemag, 21 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1621, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of precession of the equinoxes was in 1621

Dictionary Entries Near precession of the equinoxes

precession

precession of the equinoxes

pre-Chellean

Cite this Entry

“Precession of the equinoxes.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/precession%20of%20the%20equinoxes. Accessed 16 Nov. 2024.

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