Octans

[ ok-tanz ]

noun

, Astronomy.

, genitive Oc·tan·tis [ok-, tan, -tis].

1. the Octant, a southern constellation that contains the south celestial pole.

Octans

/ ˈɒktænz /

noun

1. a faint constellation in the S hemisphere in which the S celestial pole is situated

Word History and Origins

Origin of Octans¹

< Late Latin: eighth part of a circle, equivalent to oct- oct- + -āns, as in quadrāns quadrant

Example Sentences

Securities and Exchange Commission alleged that Harding Advisory LLC and Wing F. Chau compromised their independent judgment as collateral manager for a collateralized debt obligation known as "Octans I CDO Ltd."

From Reuters

Octans.—This is the constellation surrounding the South Pole of the heavens.

From Project Gutenberg

It is Sigma Octantis, in the very dull southern constellation of Octans, the Octant.

From Scientific American

Chamælion.—This small constellation lies south of Volans, and north of Mensa and Octans.

From Project Gutenberg

Apus, the Bird of Paradise, lies south-east of Musca, and north of Octans.

From Project Gutenberg