What does solar mean?
Solar means relating to the Sun or deriving its power from sunlight. The word is especially common in discussions of renewable energy, where terms such as solar panel, solar array, and solar power describe devices that capture sunlight and convert it into electricity or heat. It also has scientific and astronomical uses: a solar flare is an eruption of magnetic energy from the Sun, while solar cycle refers to the roughly eleven-year pattern of its magnetic activity. More broadly, solar can describe anything marked by brilliance, warmth, or a strikingly sunlike appearance. The adjective comes through English from the Latin solaris, “of or pertaining to the Sun,” which was formed from sol, the Latin word for the Sun. Although “lunar” is its familiar contrast because it means Moon-related, solar is not always used in strict opposition to it.
adjectiveRelating to or proceeding from the Sun. Also, relating to or powered by sunlight or another form of solar energy.
- Relating to the Sun or occurring as a result of its activity.
- Harnessing sunlight or another form of solar energy for heat, electricity, or other practical use.
- Describing a cycle, period, or system whose timing or operation is determined by the Sun.
- Characterized by brightness, heat, or an appearance resembling the Sun.
"The rooftop solar panels generate electricity throughout the day."
"Astronomers detected a powerful solar flare above the active region."
"The building combines passive heating with a rooftop solar array."
Solar takes its name from the Latin word for the Sun, making it a direct linguistic descendant of our brightest star.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of solar
Solar entered English from the Latin adjective solaris, meaning “of or pertaining to the Sun” or “sunny.” That form was derived from Latin sol, the Sun, the same source underlying solarium and the English words for the Sun and solstice. The English meaning has broadened from its ancient association with sunlight and heavenly bodies to include electricity, heat, and other energy technologies developed from solar radiation.
Related word forms
How solar is actually used
In general use, solar most often refers to the Sun, sunlight, or energy derived from the Sun. It is distinct from “lunar,” which relates to the Moon; in figurative expressions, however, the two can be used as literary contrasts rather than strict opposites.