Canis Minor

noun

Canis Mi·​nor ˌkā-nəs-ˈmī-nər How to pronounce Canis Minor (audio)
ˌka-
: a constellation to the east of Orion containing Procyon

Examples of Canis Minor in a Sentence

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The third star in the Winter Triangle is Procyon, the brightest star in the constellation Canis Minor, the little dog. — Mike Lynch, Twin Cities, 23 Feb. 2025 Canis Major is below Orion (to its south and east) while Canis Minor is to the east (on Orion's right, the observer's left). — Jesse Emspak, Space.com, 27 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin (genitive Canis Minoris), literally, lesser dog

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Canis Minor was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Canis Minor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Canis%20Minor. Accessed 23 Mar. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on Canis Minor

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about Canis Minor

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