A variable star in the constellation Cetus, also used as a feminine given name meaning 'wonderful' in Latin.
From Latin mira, feminine of mirus meaning 'wonderful, marvelous.' As a star name, it was first catalogued by the astronomer Fabricius in 1596 and named for its remarkable variability.
Mira was the first non-nova variable star ever discovered, and it pulsates so dramatically that it can become 1,500 times brighter and then fade to invisibility over an 11-month cycle, essentially breathing light across the cosmos.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.