messier number: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very LowTechnical/Specialist
Quick answer
What does “messier number” mean?
A unique numerical identifier assigned to astronomical objects catalogued by the French astronomer Charles Messier.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A unique numerical identifier assigned to astronomical objects catalogued by the French astronomer Charles Messier.
A standardized reference number (prefixed with M) used to denote specific deep-sky objects like nebulae, star clusters, and galaxies, primarily for the purpose of distinguishing them from comets.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in usage. Spelling follows standard British/American conventions for surrounding text.
Connotations
Identical technical meaning in both varieties.
Frequency
Used with identical, extremely low frequency in both astronomical and amateur astronomy contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “messier number” in a Sentence
The [astronomical object] has/carries/bears the Messier number [M#].It is catalogued/listed as Messier [M#].To find [object], search for its Messier number.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “messier number” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The Messier catalogue is a favourite among amateur astronomers.
American English
- She is working on a Messier marathon project.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in astronomy papers, textbooks, and lecture notes to precisely identify objects.
Everyday
Virtually never used outside of amateur astronomy hobbies (e.g., stargazing clubs).
Technical
The primary context. Essential terminology in observational astronomy, astrophysics, and telescope software.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “messier number”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “messier number”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “messier number”
- Pronouncing it like the adjective 'messier' (comparative of messy). It is /ˈmɛsɪeɪ/.
- Writing 'messier' with a lowercase 'm'.
- Using it as a general term for any astronomical catalog number.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It was compiled by the French astronomer Charles Messier in the 18th century.
Messier was a comet hunter. He made a list of faint, fixed objects that could be mistaken for comets to avoid wasting observation time.
The final catalogue contains 110 objects, numbered M1 to M110.
No, most have New General Catalogue (NGC) numbers and often common names as well (e.g., M1 is the Crab Nebula, NGC 1952).
A unique numerical identifier assigned to astronomical objects catalogued by the French astronomer Charles Messier.
Messier number is usually technical/specialist in register.
Messier number: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmɛsɪeɪ ˈnʌmbə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmɛsɪeɪ ˈnʌmbər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “"A Messier marathon" (an attempt to observe all Messier objects in one night).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine Charles **Messier** writing a **number** on a sticky note and sticking it to a galaxy so he wouldn't mistake it for a comet.
Conceptual Metaphor
AN ASTRONOMICAL OBJECT IS A LIBRARY BOOK (it is given a catalog number for reference).
Practice
Quiz
What is a 'Messier number' primarily used for?