tropics
UK: ˈtrɒpɪks | US: ˈtrɑːpɪks
n. the regions of the Earth surrounding the Equator, characterized by warm climate and distinct seasonal variations in rainfall.
n. (figuratively) a place or environment associated with lush growth, heat, or vibrancy.
tropics = trop<turn> + ics<noun suffix, related to>
- trop (from Greek tropos "turn, direction") refers to the turning points of the sun's apparent path (the solstices), marking the boundaries of the tropical zone.
- ics (noun-forming suffix) indicates a field or system related to the root (e.g., physics, ethics).
Etymology Origin:
The word tropics originates from Greek tropikos ("of the solstice"), referencing the celestial "turning" of the sun at the Tropic of Cancer and Capricorn. These latitudes mark the farthest points where the sun appears directly overhead, defining Earth’s tropical belt. Over time, tropics shifted from astronomical terminology to denote the warm, equatorial climate between these lines.
The biodiversity of the tropics is unparalleled.
Many migratory birds spend winters in the tropics.
The resort promised a slice of the tropics with its palm-lined beaches.
Scientists warn of deforestation’s impact on the tropics.
She dreamed of retiring to the tropics for its year-round warmth.