The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

cynosure

IPA:

Dictionary definition of cynosure

Something or someone that is the center of attention or admiration.
"The esteemed speaker was the cynosure of the conference."

Detailed meaning of cynosure

It is often used to describe a person who is the focus of attention, or a thing that is the object of admiration or interest. The term comes from ancient Greek, where "kyōn" means "dog" and "ōps" means "eye" referring to the "dog star" or Polaris, which was used as a navigation guide by sailors.

In literature, the term is often used to describe a person or object that serves as a focal point for the story or the characters' actions.

In the field of Astronomy, the term is used to refer to a star or celestial object that serves as a guide or a point of reference.

In general, the word cynosure is used to describe something or someone that is the center of attention, that is widely admired or respected, and that serves as a point of reference or inspiration.

In summary, Cynosure refers to something or someone that is the center of attention or admiration, it is often used to describe a person who is the focus of attention, or a thing that is the object of admiration or interest. The term comes from ancient Greek, where "kyōn" means "dog" and "ōps" means "eye" referring to the "dog star" or Polaris. It is used to describe something or someone that is widely admired or respected, serves as a point of reference or inspiration and it can be used in literature, astronomy, and in general.

Example sentences containing cynosure

1. The stunning fireworks display became the cynosure of the evening sky.
2. Her elegant gown made her the cynosure of the ballroom.
3. The ancient city's grand cathedral is the historical cynosure of the town.
4. The celebrity's arrival turned the quiet street into a temporary cynosure.
5. In the art gallery, the masterpiece was the cynosure, drawing crowds of admirers.
6. The athlete's incredible performance made her the cynosure of the Olympic Games.

History and etymology of cynosure

The noun 'cynosure' has a captivating etymology rooted in Greek mythology. It is derived from the Greek word 'kunosoura,' which translates to 'dog's tail.' In Greek mythology, the constellation Ursa Minor, also known as the Little Dipper, features the star Polaris at its tip, which serves as a guide for navigators because it remains nearly stationary while other stars appear to revolve around it. Due to its prominent position in the northern sky and its use in navigation, Polaris became known as the 'Cynosura,' or 'dog's tail.' Over time, the term 'cynosure' was figuratively applied to describe something or someone that is the center of attention or admiration, much like how Polaris stands out in the night sky. The etymology of 'cynosure' thus beautifully connects celestial navigation with the idea of being the focal point of attention or admiration.

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Further usage examples of cynosure

1. The newlywed couple was the cynosure of attention at their wedding reception.
2. The lighthouse served as a vital cynosure for ships navigating the coastline.
3. The historic monument stood tall as the cynosure of the city square.
4. The vibrant peacock's colorful feathers made it the cynosure of the zoo.
5. The charismatic leader was the cynosure of his political party.
6. The vintage car show was the cynosure of the classic car enthusiasts.
7. The grand chandelier in the ballroom was the cynosure of the elegant venue.
8. The fashion runway displayed models dressed in attire that made them the cynosure.
9. The crown jewel was the cynosure of the museum's collection.
10. The talented musician's concert became the cynosure of the music festival.
11. The elaborate wedding cake was the cynosure of the dessert table.
12. The architectural masterpiece served as the cynosure of the city's skyline.
13. The golden trophy was the cynosure of the sports awards ceremony.
14. The rare book collection in the library was the academic cynosure of scholars and researchers.
15. The new sports car was the cynosure of attention at the auto show.