Arabic term signifying tail, used by astronomers to denote several fixed stars. Thus, deneb elect, signifies the bright star in the lion's tail. Deneb adigeze, that in the swan's tail, &c.

Denham (Sir John), an eminent English poet, the only son of Sir John Denham, chief baron of the exchequer in Ireland, and one of the lords commissioners there, was born in Dublin in 1615; but his father, in 1617, being made a baron of the exchequer in England, he received his education in that country. In his youth he followed gaming more than anything else; but, in 1641, published a tragedy called the Sophy, which was much admired by the best judges; and, in 1643, wrote his famous poem called Cooper's Hill; which Mr Dryden pronounces will ever be the standard of good writing for majesty of style. Denham was sent ambassador from Charles II. to the king of Poland; and at the Restoration was made surveyor-general of his majesty's buildings, and created knight of the Bath. On obtaining this post, he is said to have renounced his poetry for more important studies; though he afterward wrote a fine copy of verses on the death of Cowley. He died at his office in Whitehall in 1668; and his works have been often since printed.