subsolar point

noun

sub·​so·​lar point ˌsəb-ˈsō-lər- How to pronounce subsolar point (audio)
: the point on the surface of the earth or a planet at which the sun is at the zenith

Examples of subsolar point 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 National Geographic, equinoxes are when the Earth’s subsolar point (where the sun’s rays shine perpendicular to the Earth’s surface) passes through its Equator. Clare Mulroy, USA TODAY, 19 Mar. 2024 According to National Geographic, equinoxes are when Earth’s subsolar point (where the sun’s rays shine perpendicular to the Earth’s surface) passes through its equator. Janet Loehrke, USA TODAY, 18 Mar. 2023 In addition, this visualization shows the moon's orbit position, sub-Earth and subsolar points, distance from the Earth at true scale, and labels of craters near the terminator. David Caraccio, sacbee, 29 Jan. 2018

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1908, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of subsolar point was circa 1908

Dictionary Entries Near subsolar point

Cite this Entry

“Subsolar point.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subsolar%20point. Accessed 8 Nov. 2024.

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