winter solstice
noun Astronomy.
the solstice on or about December 21st that marks the beginning of winter in the Northern Hemisphere.
Origin of winter solstice
First recorded in 1625–35
Words nearby winter solstice
winter park,
winter purslane,
winter quarters,
winter rose,
winter savory,
winter solstice,
winter sports,
winter springs,
winter squash,
winter war,
winter wheat
British Dictionary definitions for winter solstice
winter solstice
noun
the time at which the sun is at its southernmost point in the sky (northernmost point in the S hemisphere) appearing at noon at its lowest altitude above the horizon. It occurs about December 22 (June 21 in the S hemisphere)
astronomy
the point on the celestial sphere, opposite the summer solstice, at which the ecliptic is furthest south from the celestial equator. Right ascension: 18 hours; declination: –23.5°
Scientific definitions for winter solstice
winter solstice
[ wĭn′tər ]
See under solstice.