nova

UK: ˈnəʊvə | US: ˈnoʊvə

Definition

  1. n. A star that suddenly increases in brightness and then fades gradually.

  2. n. (figurative) A new or outstanding person or thing.

Structure
nov <new>a <feminine suffix>nov <new>a <feminine suffix>
Etymology

The term nova originates from the Latin phrase stella nova ("new star"), coined by astronomer Tycho Brahe in 1572 to describe a suddenly bright star. Though now understood as an explosion on a white dwarf, the logic of "newness" persists in its modern usage, extending metaphorically to describe groundbreaking phenomena.

Examples

  1. The astronomer observed a nova in the distant galaxy.

  2. Her latest novel is a literary nova, dazzling critics.

  3. Ancient records document a nova seen in 1054 AD.

  4. The startup became a nova in the tech industry.

  5. Telescopes captured the nova’s gradual dimming.