Node

(nod.) [From L. nodus, a knot or prominence.] (Ast.) One of the two points in which the orbit of a planet intersects the ecliptic. That by which the planet pa es from the S. to the N. side of the ecliptic is termed the ascending N.; the other the descending N. The straight line which joins these two points, and is formed by the intersection of the plane of the planet's orbit and that of the ecliptic is called the line of the nodes. In all the planetary orbits, the line of the nodes has a retrograde motion from E. to W.; but it amounts to only a few seconds in a year. It is a nece ary consequence of the mutual attraction of the heavenly bodies. (Bot.) A point located upon a plant's axis, from which originates a leaf or leaf-bud (Surg.) An exfoliation of bone, commonly accompanied by little pain.-(Geom.) A small oval figure formed by the intersecting of one branch of a curve with another. (Dialling) In the gnomon of a dial, a small orifice by the light of which the tim eis indicated. - (Mus.) A resting point at which a vibrating string becomes self Nodical divided in Month producing. its See harmonic LUNAR. sounds. [s. 649]