What does bissextile mean?
A bissextile year is a year that is a leap year, having 366 days, with an extra day added to the month of February. This extra day is added to keep our seasons aligned with the Earth's orbit. The term 'bissextile' is often used in formal or technical contexts, such as astronomy or calendar studies. The Olympic Games, for example, are held every four years, which means they are held in a bissextile year. The concept of a bissextile year is important in understanding the calendar and the way we measure time. It is a useful term to know for anyone interested in history, science, or culture.
adjectiveA year that is a leap year, having 366 days, with an extra day added to the month of February.
- A year that is a leap year, having 366 days, with an extra day added to the month of February.
"The bissextile year is a significant one in the calendar, as it helps to keep our seasons aligned with the Earth's orbit."
"The Olympic Games are held every four years, which means they are held in a bissextile year."
The plural form 'bissextiles' is used to refer to multiple leap years.
"The ancient Romans used the term 'bissextiles' to refer to the years that were leap years."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of bissextile
The term 'bissextile' comes from the Latin words 'bis' meaning 'twice' and 'sextus' meaning 'sixth'. It refers to the fact that the extra day in a leap year is added to the sixth day before the Kalends of March, which is the first day of the month of March.
Usage notes
The term 'bissextile' is often used in formal or technical contexts, such as astronomy or calendar studies.