aphelion
noun
The point in the orbit of a planet or other celestial body where it is farthest from the sun. The opposite of perihelion.
Etymology
From Greek "aphelion," from "apo" (away from) + "helios" (sun). Coined by astronomer Johannes Kepler in the 17th century to describe orbital mechanics.
Examples in Use
- 1.
"Earth reaches aphelion in early July, when it's farthest from the sun."
- 2.
"The comet's aphelion carried it far beyond Pluto."
- 3.
"Despite being near aphelion, the Northern Hemisphere experiences summer."
Related Vocabulary
Synonyms
Related Words
Fun Fact
Counterintuitively, Earth is at aphelion during Northern Hemisphere summer. The seasons result from axial tilt, not distance from the sun—we're actually closest to the sun during Northern winter.
Word Game Tips
Letters: 8 letters (A, P, H, E, L, I, O, N)
Scrabble Value: 13 points
Tip: Look for common letter combinations like "AP" at the start of words.
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