|
 |
| Definition |
Something that happens very rarely or
infrequently; an uncommon or exceptional event. |
| Examples |
1) The rise of China as a superpower happens once
in a blue moon in human history. 2) We go on vacation together
once in a blue moon. |
| Etymology |
The phrase "once in a
blue moon" has its roots in old astronomical terms.
Traditionally, a "blue moon" refers to the second full moon within a
single calendar month — a rare phenomenon. It was popularized in the
19th and 20th centuries in English to describe events that are uncommon
or hardly ever happen. The "blue" aspect has nothing to do with the
color of the moon but was likely misunderstood or rephrased over time. |
| Synonyms |
Rarely, hardly ever, seldom |
