Canicula (Noun)
Meaning
The brightest star in the sky; in Canis Major.
Classification
Nouns denoting natural objects (not man-made).
Examples
- The ancient Greeks associated the rising of the dog star canicula with the beginning of hot summer weather.
- In many cultures canicula, also known as Sirius, is considered a harbinger of drought and high temperatures.
- To the ancient Romans the canicula or dog days of summer brought extreme heat and a higher risk of disease.
- Sirius, or canicula to the Romans, is the brightest star visible from Earth in the night sky.
- During the summer months, the canicula, the brightest star in the constellation Canis Major, shines brightly in the night sky.