superior conjunction

[ suh-peer-ee-er kuhn-juhngk-shuhn, soo‐ ]

noun

, Astronomy.

1. the alignment of an inferior planet and the sun in which the planet is at the far side of the sun from the earth.

superior conjunction

/ s-pîr′ē-ər /

1. See under conjunction

Word History and Origins

Origin of superior conjunction¹

First recorded in 1825–35

Example Sentences

When the inferior planet is on the far side of the sun from us, it is said to be in Superior Conjunction.

From Project Gutenberg

Its apparent diameter varies between 4½″ in superior conjunction to 13″ in inferior conjunction.

From Project Gutenberg

Its apparent diameter varies between 9½″ in superior conjunction, and 62″ in inferior conjunction.

From Project Gutenberg

Mercury and Venus have each two conjunctions, the inferior and the superior conjunction.

From Project Gutenberg