ecliptic
ecliptic (e*klip"tik) , noun
[Compare French écliptique, Latin linea ecliptica, Greek 'ekleiptiko`s, prop. adj., of an eclipse, because in this circle eclipses of the sun and moon take place. See Ecliptic, a.]
1.
(Astronomy) A great circle of the celestial sphere, making an angle with the equinoctial of about 23° 28′. It is the apparent path of the sun, or the real path of the earth as seen from the sun.
2.
(Geography) A great circle drawn on a terrestrial globe, making an angle of 23° 28′ with the equator; -- used for illustrating and solving astronomical problems.
Ecliptic , adjective
[Latin eclipticus belonging to an eclipse, Greek 'ekleiptiko`s. See Eclipse.]
1.
Pertaining to the ecliptic; as, the ecliptic way.
2.
Pertaining to an eclipse or to eclipses.
Collocations (2)
Lunar ecliptic limit (Astronomy) , the space of 12° on the moon's orbit from the node, within which, if the moon happens to be at full, it will be eclipsed.
Solar ecliptic limit , the space of 17° from the lunar node, within which, if a conjunction of the sun and moon occur, the sun will be eclipsed.