Sundial meaning

A sundial is an ancient timekeeping device that uses the position of the sun's shadow to indicate the time.


Sundial definitions

Word backwards laidnus
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division sun-dial
Plural The plural of the word "sundial" is "sundials."
Total letters 7
Vogais (3) u,i,a
Consonants (4) s,n,d,l

When it comes to tracking time using the position of the sun, a sundial is an ancient and fascinating instrument that has been used for centuries.

Sundials work by casting a shadow from a style, often a straight rod or a thin, straight gnomon, onto a flat surface marked with lines indicating the time of day.

History of Sundials

The earliest known sundial dates back to ancient Egypt around 1500 BC, with many civilizations such as the Greeks, Romans, and Babylonians also developing their versions of this timekeeping device.

How Sundials Work

Sundials rely on the Earth's rotation and the position of the sun in the sky to accurately tell time. As the sun moves across the sky, the shadow cast by the gnomon changes position along the marked lines on the dial, indicating the time.

Types of Sundials

There are various types of sundials, including horizontal, vertical, equatorial, polar, and digital sundials, each designed to function effectively based on its orientation and location.

While sundials are no longer the primary timekeeping devices we rely on today, they remain popular for their aesthetic appeal, historical significance, and the fascinating way they interact with the natural world.


Sundial Examples

  1. The ornate sundial in the garden casts long shadows across the lawn.
  2. As the sun moved across the sky, the sundial accurately told the time.
  3. During the field trip, the students marveled at the ancient sundial in the town square.
  4. His grandfather taught him how to read the time using a sundial in the backyard.
  5. The intricate design of the sundial made it a beautiful addition to the courtyard.
  6. The archaeologists discovered fragments of a sundial while excavating the ancient ruins.
  7. The sundial was positioned perfectly to catch the sunlight and provide an accurate time reading.
  8. While hiking in the mountains, they came across a well-preserved sundial on a rock.
  9. The museum exhibit showcased sundials from different civilizations throughout history.
  10. At the botanical garden, visitors can admire the sundial surrounded by blooming flowers.


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  • Updated 24/06/2024 - 01:28:47