n. [ F. apparition, L. apparitio, fr. apparere. See Appear. ] 1. The act of becoming visible; appearance; visibility. Milton. [ 1913 Webster ] The sudden apparition of the Spaniards. Prescott. [ 1913 Webster ] The apparition of Lawyer Clippurse occasioned much speculation in that portion of the world. Sir W. Scott. [ 1913 Webster ] 2. The thing appearing; a visible object; a form. [ 1913 Webster ] Which apparition, it seems, was you. Tatler. [ 1913 Webster ] 3. An unexpected, wonderful, or preternatural appearance; a ghost; a specter; a phantom. “The heavenly bands . . . a glorious apparition.” Milton. [ 1913 Webster ] I think it is the weakness of mine eyes That shapes this monstrous apparition. Shak. [ 1913 Webster ] 4. (Astron.) The first appearance of a star or other luminary after having been invisible or obscured; -- opposed to occultation. [ 1913 Webster ] Circle of perpetual apparition. See under Circle. [ 1913 Webster ]
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