rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryamplitudeRising angle
noun

amplitude

The angular distance along the horizon between a celestial body's rising point and due east.

The navigator measures the sun's rising amplitude relative to due east.

Etymology
amplitudeLatinbreadth; extent

Latin amplitudo names breadth or extent. In this astronomical use, the extent being measured is an angle along the horizon, from east to a celestial body’s rising point.

More examples

  • The table gives the star's amplitude for the observer's latitude.
  • The recorded amplitude places the rising point north of east.
  • Observers compare the rising amplitudes at different times of year.

Forms

amplitude · amplitudes