Embolismus

/ɛmˈbɒlɪzməs/ noun

Definition

The insertion of intercalary days or months into a calendar; the system of adjustment in lunar calendars.

Etymology

Direct from Latin 'embolismus,' which derives from Greek 'embolismos.' Used primarily in historical and astronomical contexts when discussing ancient calendar systems.

Kelly Says

The Romans and Greeks obsessed over this problem: lunar months don't match solar years, so they invented 'embolismus'—the sophisticated math that kept their entire civilization synchronized!

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