Moon

Definition

Moon is a noun referring to a natural satellite that orbits a planet, most commonly associated with Earth’s Moon, which illuminates the night sky by reflecting sunlight.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /muːn/
• Respelling: MOON

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /muːn/
• Respelling: MOON

Etymology

The word "moon" comes from the Old English "mōna," derived from Proto-Germanic "mēnô" and Proto-Indo-European "mḗh₁n̥s," meaning "month" or "measure of time." The term is related to the cycles of the Moon, which historically marked the passage of months.

Derivatives

• Moonlight (noun)
• Moonbeam (noun)
• Moonlit (adjective)
• Moondust (noun)
• Moonrise (noun)

Synonyms

• Satellite
• Lunar body
• Celestial body

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "moon" is used in various contexts, such as describing Earth’s Moon ("The Moon is full tonight") or other planetary satellites ("Jupiter has many moons"). As a verb, it can mean to expose one’s bare buttocks humorously or insultingly ("He mooned the crowd").

Related Terms

• Sun: The star at the center of the solar system that the Moon reflects light from.
• Orbit: The curved path followed by a celestial body.
• Earth: The planet that the Moon orbits.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A natural satellite: Refers to a celestial body that orbits a planet.
  • Example: "The Moon orbits Earth once every 27.3 days."
• The Earth's Moon: Refers specifically to the natural satellite of Earth.
  • Example: "The Moon affects Earth’s tides."

Verb

• To expose one’s buttocks: Used humorously or insultingly in informal contexts.
  • Example: "He was dared to moon the bus."