lunation

noun

lu·​na·​tion lü-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce lunation (audio)
: the period of time averaging 29 days, 12 hours, 44 minutes, and 2.8 seconds elapsing between two successive new moons

Examples of lunation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This lunation is also known as the Thundermoon (from the many thunderstorms in July), Hay Moon (this is its peak harvest month), and Wyrt Moon (from an old Celtic word for herbs, as this is an ideal time to gather plants for drying). Lisa Stardust, refinery29.com, 8 July 2025 The effects of this lunation will be felt for about a full week, so expect situations to be thrust upon you several days before and after its peak. Kyle Thomas, People.com, 6 July 2025 This lunation can also help you in shedding whatever (or whoever) is holding you back from professional success. Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 July 2025 This lunation activates your wellness, routine, and sacred service sector. Dossé-Via Trenou, Refinery29, 30 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for lunation

Word History

Etymology

Middle English lunacioun, borrowed from Anglo-French & Latin; Anglo-French lunaison, lunaciun, borrowed from Medieval Latin lūnātiōn-, lūnātiō, from Latin lūna "moon" + -ātiōn-, -ātiō -ation — more at lunar

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lunation was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Lunation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lunation. Accessed 18 Jul. 2025.

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