# sun

/ˈsən/ (US) · /sˈʌn/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/sun
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. the star

noun · CEFR A1

the large, bright star that the Earth moves around and that gives us light and heat.

For teachers: the star at the centre of the Solar System around which the Earth and other planets orbit.

- The sun rose early this morning, filling the room with light.
- Astronomers have calculated that the sun is approximately 4.6 billion years old and is currently in its stable main-sequence phase.

### 2. sunlight

noun · CEFR A2

the light and heat that come from the sun.

For teachers: the radiant energy, specifically light and heat, received from the sun.

- We sat in the sun for an hour to get warm.
- The architect designed the atrium to maximise the amount of natural sun entering the building during the winter months.

### 3. other stars

noun · CEFR B2

any star that is the centre of its own system of planets.

For teachers: any star, especially when considered as the central body of a planetary system.

- Scientists are looking for planets that travel around distant suns.
- The discovery of exoplanets suggests that many distant suns may host planetary systems capable of supporting life.

### 4. to sit in the sun

verb · CEFR B1

to sit or lie in the light of the sun, usually to get warm or to tan.

For teachers: to expose oneself or something to the direct rays of the sun.

- The cat liked to sun itself on the balcony every afternoon.
- After the long winter, the villagers gathered in the square to sun themselves and enjoy the first signs of spring.

Usage: Often used reflexively as 'to sun oneself'.

## Examples

- The sun is very bright today.
- We sat on the beach all afternoon to enjoy the warmth of the summer sun.
- Ancient civilizations often personified the sun as a powerful deity, recognizing its essential role in sustaining agricultural cycles and life itself.

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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.