in Astronomy, an epithet given to the north pole, or the pole raised above our horizon. It is called the arctic pole, from the constellation of the little bear; called in Greek, ἀπερός, the last star in the tail of which nearly points out the north pole.

Arctic Circle is a lesser circle of the sphere, parallel to the equator, and 23° 30' distant from the north pole; from whence its name. This, and its opposite the antarctic, are called the two polar circles, and may be conceived to be described by the motion of the poles of the ecliptic round the poles of the equator, or of the world.

Arctic Regions. See Polar Regions.