n. & adj.
n. 1 the parallel of latitude 23ø27° north (tropic of Cancer) or south (tropic of Capricorn) of the Equator. 2 each of two corresponding circles on the celestial sphere where the sun appears to turn after reaching its greatest declination. 3 (the Tropics) the region between the tropics of Cancer and Capricorn.
adj. 1 = TROPICAL 1. 2 of tropism. tropic bird any sea bird of the family Phaethontidae, with very long central tail-feathers.
[ ME f. L tropicus f. Gk tropikos f. trope turning f. trepo turn ]