# solstice

/ˈsɔɫstɪs/ (US) · /sˈɒlstɪs/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/solstice
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

one of the two days in the year when the sun is at its highest or lowest point in the sky. This results in the longest day of the year in summer and the shortest day in winter.

For teachers: either of the two moments in the year when the sun reaches its maximum or minimum declination relative to the celestial equator. Characterised by the greatest difference between the duration of daylight and darkness.

## Examples

- The summer solstice is the longest day of the year.
- Ancient civilizations often built stone monuments to track the sun's position during the winter solstice.
- While the summer solstice marks the peak of solar intensity, the highest seasonal temperatures usually occur several weeks later due to the thermal inertia of the Earth's oceans.

## Usage notes

- Often specified as 'summer solstice' or 'winter solstice' to indicate the specific seasonal event.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.