A solstice is one of the two times each year when the sun appears at its highest or lowest point in the sky at noon, creating the longest or shortest day. These happen around June 21 and December 21.
From Middle English, from Old French *solstice*, from Latin *solstitium*, from *sol* “sun” + *stit-* from *sistere* “to stand still.” It refers to the sun seeming to pause in its path before moving back.
The word literally means “the sun stands still,” which is exactly what ancient sky-watchers thought was happening. For many cultures, solstices were like nature’s giant calendar marks for planting, harvest, and festivals.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.