Meaning & Definition
noun
A half of a spherical object; specifically in geography, one of the two halves of the Earth divided by the equator or by a meridian.
The Northern Hemisphere experiences winter during the Southern Hemisphere's summer.
A half of the celestial sphere.
Astronomers often refer to the visible stars in the sky in terms of the northern and southern hemispheres.
One half of the brain, either the left or the right.
The left hemisphere of the brain is often associated with logical reasoning and analytical skills.
Etymology
From Latin 'hemisphaerium', from Greek 'hēmisus', meaning half, + 'sphaira', meaning sphere.
Common Phrases and Expressions
northern hemisphere:
The half of the Earth that is north of the equator.
southern hemisphere:
The half of the Earth that is south of the equator.
brain hemisphere:
Refers to one of the two halves of the brain.
Slang Meanings