sundial

noun

sun·​di·​al ˈsən-ˌdī(-ə)l 

: an instrument to show the time of day by the shadow of a gnomon on a usually horizontal plate or on a cylindrical surface

Examples of sundial in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Particular attention in the exhibition is also given to the Umayyads’ contributions to science and technology through the display of sundials that were used in early Islamic astronomy. —Chadd Scott, Forbes, 12 Dec. 2024

Inside the building are an Egyptian sundial and a Foucault pendulum. —Marla Jo Fisher, Orange County Register, 28 Nov. 2024

The curving observation tower functions similarly to a massive sundial and marks the changing of the seasons. —Adam Williams, New Atlas, 4 Nov. 2024

Designed like a huge sundial, the Arctic Henge casts shadows in precise locations between its arched gateways. —Samuel Sanders, Smithsonian Magazine, 5 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1555, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

sundial

noun

sun·​di·​al -ˌdī(-ə)l 

: a device to show the time of day by the position of the shadow cast on a marked plate or disk usually by an object with a straight edge