Lesser Wain (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/ˈlɛsər weɪn/

Meaning and Use

"Lesser Wain" refers to a term from astronomy and navigation. It is a traditional name given to a group of stars that forms a part of the constellation Ursa Major (The Great Bear). In this context, it is typically used in various astronomical and navigational discussions or literature. The term is less commonly referenced in contemporary everyday language but may be more prevalent in historical texts or among amateur astronomers. It might be encountered in both written and oral discourse but is more frequently found in academic or specialized contexts.

Example Sentences

1. The ancient sailors navigated by the stars, often finding their way using the position of the Lesser Wain.
   Старые моряки ориентировались по звездам, часто находя путь, используя положение Меньшей Телеги.

2. Astronomers often discuss the significance of the Lesser Wain in understanding the larger patterns of celestial navigation.
   Астрономы часто обсуждают важность Меньшей Телеги для понимания больших моделей небесной навигации.

3. The Lesser Wain is often confused with the more prominent Big Dipper but has its unique positioning in the night sky.
   Меньшую Телегу часто путают с более заметной Большой Ложкой, но у нее есть свое уникальное положение на ночном небе.

Idiomatic Expressions

While "Lesser Wain" itself may not have a set of idiomatic expressions directly associated with it, the broader context of navigation and the stars can lend itself to idiomatic phrases related to guidance and direction. Here are a few phrases incorporating themes of navigation and orientation, for which "Lesser Wain" might be a metaphorical reference.

1. "To navigate by the stars," meaning to find one's way using guidance or knowledge.
   «Ориентироваться по звездам», что означает находить путь с помощью руководства или знаний.

2. "Lost in the stars," indicating someone who is confused or lacks direction.
   «Потеряться среди звезд», что указывает на то, что кто-то сбился с пути или не знает, куда идти.

3. "Follow the North Star," meaning to find a guiding principle or aim in life.
   «Следовать за Северной звездой», что означает искать ориентир или цель в жизни.

Etymology

The term "Lesser Wain" derives from older English, with "wain" meaning a cart or wagon, which in this context is a metaphorical reference to a group of stars. The word "lesser" indicates its smaller or less prominent nature compared to other celestial bodies or constellations.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms:
- Small Dipper (often confused but refers to a different group of stars)
- Ursa Minor (the constellation containing the Little Dipper)

Antonyms:
- Greater Wain (refers to the Big Dipper or Ursa Major)
- Prominent Stars