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Webster 1913 Edition

Cynosure

Cy′no-sure

(s?′n?-sh?r or s?n′?-sh?r; 277)
,
Noun.
[L.
Cynosura
theconstellation Cynosure, Gr. [GREEK][GREEK][GREEK][GREEK][GREEK] dog’s tail, the constellation Cynosure; [GREEK][GREEK][GREEK][GREEK], [GREEK][GREEK][GREEK][GREEK], dog +
οὐρά
tail. See
Cynic
.]
1.
The constellation of the Lesser Bear (Ursa Minor), to which, as containing the polar star, the eyes of mariners and travelers were often directed.
2.
That which serves to direct.
Southey.
3.
Anything to which attention is strongly turned; a center of attraction.
Where perhaps some beauty lies,
The
cynosure
of neighboring eyes.
Milton.

Webster 1828 Edition

Cynosure

CYNOSURE

,
Noun.
[Gr., the tail of the dog, ursa minor, the little bear.] The constellation near the north pole, consisting of seven stars, four of which are disposed like the four wheels of a chariot, and three lengthwise, like the beam; hence called the chariot or Charless wain. As seamen are accustomed to steer by this constellation, ti si sometimes taken for that which directs or attracts attention.

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