sunspot
UK: ˈsʌnspɒt | US: ˈsʌnspɑːt
n. A dark patch on the sun's surface caused by magnetic activity.
n. (Informal) A sunny vacation destination.
The word "sunspot" is a straightforward compound of "sun" (Old English sunne, from Proto-Germanic sunnon) and "spot" (Middle English spot, likely from Old Norse spotti). The term emerged in the early 17th century to describe the dark blemishes observed on the sun's surface, reflecting their literal appearance as "spots on the sun." The simplicity of the compound makes it highly intuitive for learners.
Scientists study sunspots to understand solar storms.
The telescope revealed a large sunspot group today.
This resort is a popular sunspot for tourists.
Galileo was among the first to document sunspots.
Sunspots follow an 11-year activity cycle.