dec

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The word "dec" can have a couple of meanings, especially in different contexts. Let's explore them in a simple way.

Basic Definition:

1. Astronomy Meaning: In astronomy, "dec" is short for "declination." It refers to the angular distance of a celestial body (like a star or planet) north or south of the celestial equator. It is measured in degrees. For example, if a star has a declination of +30 degrees, it is located 30 degrees north of the celestial equator. This is important for astronomers when locating stars in the sky.

2. Calendar Meaning: "Dec" is also an abbreviation for December, which is the last (12th) month of the year. It has 31 days and is known for winter holidays in many countries.

Usage Instructions:

• When using "dec" in astronomy, it is often paired with "right ascension," which helps to pinpoint the exact location of stars and celestial objects.
• When referring to the month, you can use "Dec" when writing a date, like "Dec 25" for December 25.

Example Sentences:

• Astronomy: "The star's declination (dec) is +45 degrees, meaning it is positioned 45 degrees north of the celestial equator."
• Calendar: "We always celebrate New Year's Eve on Dec 31."

Advanced Usage:

• In astronomy discussions, you might hear phrases like "The declination of Sirius is -16 degrees," which means Sirius is located 16 degrees south of the celestial equator.

Word Variants:

• Declination: The full term for "dec" in astronomy.
• December: The full term for "dec" in the calendar context.

Different Meanings:

• Declination: In addition to its astronomical meaning, "declination" can also refer to a refusal or a decline in other contexts (e.g., "He gave a declination to the invitation").
• December: As a month, it is associated with winter in the Northern Hemisphere and summer in the Southern Hemisphere.

Synonyms:

• For declination in astronomy: "celestial latitude" (though this is not commonly used).
• For December: There are no direct synonyms, but it is sometimes referred to as the "12th month."

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly use "dec," but you might hear phrases like "ring in the new year" related to December celebrations.

Summary:

"Dec" can refer to either declination in astronomy or December in the calendar.

Academic

Noun

1. (astronomy) the angular distance of a celestial body north or to the south of the celestial equator; expressed in degrees; used with right ascension to specify positions on the celestial sphere
2. the last (12th) month of the year

Synonyms

• declination
• celestial latitude
• December
• Dec