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gnomon
Definition
A gnomon is a pointer or indicator on a sundial. It is a triangular blade that casts a shadow on the sundial's face. The shadow's length and direction indicate the time of day.
The gnomon is the most important part of a sundial. It is what tells the time. The length and angle of the gnomon are determined by the latitude of the location where the sundial is placed.
How can the word be used?
The gnomon in the sundial cast a shadow that showed the time to be noon.
Different forms of the word
Noun: gnomon.
Adjective: gnomic.
Verb: to gnomonize.
Synonym: indicator, pointer.
Etymology
The word "gnomon" comes from the Greek word "γνώμων" (gnōmon), which means "indicator" or "pointer". The word was first used in English in the 16th century to refer to the rod or bar that is used to cast a shadow in order to tell time or measure the sun's altitude.
Question
What is a gnomon?