double star

noun

, Astronomy.

1. two stars that appear as one if not viewed through a telescope with adequate magnification, such as two stars that are separated by a great distance but are nearly in line with each other and an observer optical double star, or those that are relatively close together and comprise a single physical system physical double star.

double star

noun

1. See optical double star, binary star
   two stars, appearing close together when viewed through a telescope; either physically associated (binary star) or not associated (optical double star) See also binary star optical double star

double star

1. See binary star

Word History and Origins

Origin of double star¹

First recorded in 1775–85

Example Sentences

This is a double star of the first magnitude, which, being only 30 from the south celestial pole, never rises in our latitudes.

From Project Gutenberg

Whenever you have a chance of looking at the heavens through a telescope, you should ask to be shown what is called a double star.

From Project Gutenberg

Some motion must, therefore, be going on in every genuine double star, whether we have been able to see that motion or not.

From Project Gutenberg

Especially is this true in the case of two suns like those forming a double star.

From Project Gutenberg

There is a particularly beautiful double star of this kind in the constellation of the Swan.

From Project Gutenberg