horizon

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ho·ri·zon / həˈrīzən/ • n. 1. [usu. in sing.] the line at which the earth's surface and the sky appear to meet: the sun rose above the horizon. ∎  (also apparent or visible horizon) the circular boundary of the part of the earth's surface visible from a particular point, ignoring irregularities and obstructions. ∎  (also celestial horizon) Astron. a great circle of the celestial sphere, the plane of which passes through the center of the earth and is parallel to that of the apparent horizon of a place.2. (often horizons) the limit of a person's mental perception, experience, or interest: she wanted to leave home and broaden her horizons.3. Geol. a layer of soil or rock, or a set of strata, with particular characteristics. ∎  Archaeol. a level of an excavated site representing a particular period.PHRASES: on the horizon just imminent or becoming apparent: trouble could be on the horizon.

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