phasis
9.9
The way something looks, for example the moon or a planet
- noun
- /ˈfeɪsɪs/
- Archaic
:
fase
- The phasis of the moon fascinated ancient astronomers.
Examples
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The phasis of the moon was particularly striking last night.
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The phasis of Venus was carefully recorded by early observers.
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In old texts, the word phasis often described the changing look of the sky.
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In ancient texts, the phasis of stars was often noted.
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The phasis of the moon was particularly striking last night.
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The phasis of Venus was carefully recorded by early observers.
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In old texts, the word phasis often described the changing look of the sky.
Synonyms
Surface Forms
Etymology
The word phasis comes from a Greek word that meant 'appearance' and from the verb phainein 'to show'. It is like the common word phase and was used for the changing look of the moon or a planet, which is why it means the appearance of something in the sky.