A gnomon is a pointer or indicator on a sundial. It is a triangular blade that casts a shadow on the sundial's face. The shadow's length and direction indicate the time of day.
The gnomon is the most important part of a sundial. It is what tells the time. The length and angle of the gnomon are determined by the latitude of the location where the sundial is placed.
The gnomon in the sundial cast a shadow that showed the time to be noon.
Noun: gnomon.
Adjective: gnomic.
Verb: to gnomonize.
Synonym: indicator, pointer.
The word "gnomon" comes from the Greek word "γνώμων" (gnōmon), which means "indicator" or "pointer". The word was first used in English in the 16th century to refer to the rod or bar that is used to cast a shadow in order to tell time or measure the sun's altitude.
What is a gnomon?
Address
Developing Experts Limited
Exchange Street Buildings
35-37 Exchange Street
Norwich
NR2 1DP
UK
Phone
01603 273515
Email
hello@developingexperts.com
Copyright 2025 Developing Experts, All rights reserved.
