equator
UK: ɪˈkweɪtə | US: ɪˈkweɪtər
n. an imaginary line circling the Earth, equidistant from the North and South Poles
n. (astronomy) a similar great circle on any celestial body
Derived from Latin aequator ("one who makes equal"), from aequare ("to make equal"). The term reflects the concept of dividing the Earth into equal northern and southern hemispheres. The root equ- (from Latin aequus) signifies balance or equality, while -ator denotes an agent or instrument. The word entered Middle English via Medieval Latin, retaining its logical connection to geometric symmetry.
The equator divides the Earth into two hemispheres.
Temperatures near the equator remain high year-round.
Solar radiation is most intense at the equator.
The spacecraft crossed the Martian equator during its mission.
Countries along the equator experience minimal seasonal variation.