Pictor

noun

Pic·​tor ˈpik-tər 

astronomy

: a southern constellation that is visible between the constellations of Columba and Dorado and that is represented by the figure of a painter's easel

Pulsar 437, as the scientists call it, has a stellar companion, a white dwarf, which is the size of the Earth and is visible with a telescope in the southern constellation, Pictor.

—Walter Sullivan, The New York Times, 23 Feb. 1993

Word History

First Known Use

1844, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now