sunrise
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /sˈʌnraɪz/
US
- /ˈsənˌraɪz/
Description
- dawn
- daybreak
- beginning of the day
A sunrise is not just the moment when the sun appears over the horizon. It is also the soft spread of light and color that tells you a new day has begun. You might see pink, orange, and gold in the sky while standing on a beach, walking in the hills, or looking out of your bedroom window. It often brings thoughts of hope, calm, and a fresh start.
The word can also be used in a figurative way to mean the beginning of something new and promising. "This project marks the sunrise of a new era for our company" suggests a hopeful start. It is also a moment people often capture in art, poetry, and photography because it feels brief and beautiful.
Sunrise is the moment when the upper edge of the sun appears above the horizon in the east, marking the beginning of daylight. But it is so much more than just an astronomical event. It is a daily spectacle that has captivated people for thousands of years, inspiring art, religion, and countless quiet moments of thought.
The colors you see during sunrise are not actually in the sun itself. They are created as sunlight passes through Earth's atmosphere, scattering blue light away while allowing reds and oranges to shine through. This is why sunrises often appear so vivid and varied, depending on conditions like dust, mist, or clouds.
Beyond its literal meaning, "sunrise" can be used figuratively to represent a beginning or the start of something positive. "The sunrise of her career" might describe the early stages of success for an artist or entrepreneur. It evokes feelings of optimism, renewal, and potential.
Historically, sunrises have held deep cultural significance in many societies. Ancient civilizations often worshipped the sun as a deity, and sunrise ceremonies were common. Even today, watching a sunrise can be a deeply personal and spiritual experience, a reminder of the beauty and wonder of the natural world. So the next time you witness a sunrise, take a moment to appreciate not just the light, but also the symbolism and history woven into this daily miracle.
Examples
- 1
Early hike
We left the cabin before sunrise to start the hike early.
- 2
Beach view
They stood on the beach and watched the sunrise.
- 3
Balcony view
From our balcony, we could see the sunrise over the ocean.
- 4
Market time
The streets were quiet, but the market was already busy at sunrise.
- 5
Opening hours
The park opens at sunrise and closes at sunset.
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- sunrisenounadjective
Forms
- sunrisespluralnounadjective