asterism
asterism
Definition
as·ter·ism (-iz′əm)
noun
- a group or cluster of stars that may or may not form a constellation
- Mineralogy a starlike figure produced in some crystals by reflected or transmitted light
- Printing three asterisks placed in triangular form ( or ⁂) to call attention to a passage
Etymology: Gr asterismos, a marking with stars < asterizein, to mark with stars < astēr, star
