n. 1 either of the times when the sun is furthest from the equator. 2 the point in its ecliptic reached by the sun at a solstice. summer solstice the time at which the sun is furthest north from the equator, about 21 June in the northern hemisphere. winter solstice the time at which the sun is furthest south from the equator, about 22 Dec. in the northern hemisphere. solstitial adj.
[ ME f. OF f. L solstitium f. sol sun + sistere stit- make stand ]