astronomical clock: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2formal
Quick answer
What does “astronomical clock” mean?
A precision clock displaying astronomical information such as positions of the sun, moon, zodiacal constellations, and sometimes planetary motions.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A precision clock displaying astronomical information such as positions of the sun, moon, zodiacal constellations, and sometimes planetary motions.
A highly complex timekeeping device that often incorporates sophisticated mechanical displays of celestial phenomena, historically important in astronomy and navigation.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Spelling identical, usage identical. Both varieties use the term with same technical meaning.
Connotations
In both cultures, connotes historical significance, mechanical complexity, and scientific heritage.
Frequency
Equally rare in everyday speech; appears mostly in academic, historical, or horological contexts in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “astronomical clock” in a Sentence
The [adjective] astronomical clock [verbs] in [location].[Proper noun] Astronomical Clock is [description].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “astronomical clock” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The mechanism astronomical-clocks the sun's position.
- It astronomical-clocks various celestial events.
American English
- The device astronomical-clocks planetary motions.
- It astronomical-clocks lunar phases.
adverb
British English
- The dial moved astronomical-clock precisely.
- It functioned astronomical-clock accurately.
American English
- The gears rotated astronomical-clock smoothly.
- It tracked stars astronomical-clock reliably.
adjective
British English
- The astronomical-clock mechanism is intricate.
- An astronomical-clock exhibition opened.
American English
- The astronomical-clock display is fascinating.
- An astronomical-clock restoration project.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rarely used except in tourism (e.g., 'The astronomical clock attracts many visitors.')
Academic
Common in history of science, horology, and astronomy texts.
Everyday
Very rare; might appear in travel discussions about specific landmarks.
Technical
Precise term in horology and historical instrument studies.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “astronomical clock”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “astronomical clock”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “astronomical clock”
- Using 'astrological clock' (incorrect—astrology vs. astronomy).
- Pluralizing as 'astronomical clocks' when referring to a single named clock (e.g., 'the Prague Astronomical Clocks' is wrong).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, an astrolabe is a portable instrument for calculating celestial positions, while an astronomical clock is a fixed timekeeping device that displays such information mechanically.
Typically no. The term traditionally refers to mechanical clocks with moving displays of astronomical phenomena, though modern digital displays might be described metaphorically.
The Prague Astronomical Clock (installed 1410) is among the most famous and oldest still operating.
Yes, most display conventional hours and minutes alongside astronomical information like zodiac signs or moon phases.
A precision clock displaying astronomical information such as positions of the sun, moon, zodiacal constellations, and sometimes planetary motions.
Astronomical clock is usually formal in register.
Astronomical clock: in British English it is pronounced /ˌæstrəˈnɒmɪkl klɒk/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌæstrəˈnɑːmɪkl klɑːk/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
ASTRONOMICAL CLOCK = ASTRONOMY + CLOCK → a clock that shows astronomy.
Conceptual Metaphor
TIME IS A COSMIC MAP (the clock maps celestial movements onto time).
Practice
Quiz
What is an astronomical clock primarily designed to show?