celestial latitude see latitude

celestial longitude see longitude

celestial mechanics singular noun (astronomy)

The study of the motions of celestial objects in gravitational fields, esp, as by Newton, satellite and planetary motion in the solar system

celestial navigation noun

Navigation by the stars, etc (also astronavigation)

celestial poles plural noun (astronomy)

The two points at which the earth's axis, extended indefinitely, cuts the celestial sphere

celestial sphere noun (astronomy)

An imaginary sphere of infinite radius, of which the observer is the centre, onto which stars and other celestial bodies are projected

latitude /latˈi-tūd/

1. Angular distance from the equator (geography)
2. A place of specified angular distance from the equator (geography)
3. (also celestial latitude) angular distance from the ecliptic (astronomy)
4. Width (chiefly humorous)
5. A wide extent
6. Range
7. Scope
8. Allowance
9. Breadth in interpretation
10. Extent of meaning or importance
11. Freedom from restraint
12. Laxity

latitūdˈinal adjective

1. Relating to latitude
2. In the direction of latitude

latitūdˈinally adverb

latitūdināˈrian adjective

1. Broad or liberal, esp in religious belief
2. Lax

1. A member of a school of liberal and philosophical theologians within the English Church in the later half of the 17c
2. A person with latitudinarian views, esp one free from prejudice in religious or church matters

latitūdināˈrianism noun

latitūdˈinous adjective

Broad or wide, esp in interpretation