1. a bear, especially as used in the names of constellations
Usage: astronomy; Latin

Examples

• Ursa Major is commonly known as the Big Dipper.
• Ursa Minor contains the North Star.
• The constellation Ursa Major is visible in the northern sky.
• Ancient astronomers named the bear constellations Ursa Major and Ursa Minor.
• Students learn to identify Ursa Major as one of the most recognizable star patterns.
• The Great Bear, or Ursa Major, has been known since ancient times.