August is referred to as the “dog days” of summer due to its association with the star Sirius, also known as the Dog Star. The ancient Romans, who named these scorching hot and humid days “diēs caniculārēs,” believed that they were influenced by the celestial activities of Sirius. Sirius is the brightest star in the constellation Canis Major, which translates to “Large Dog” in Latin.
The Romans’ connection between the hottest days of summer and Sirius stemmed from their observations of the night sky. They noticed that during the late summer, Sirius rose and set with the sun, appearing to be in close proximity to it. This alignment of the sun and Sirius led the Romans to believe that the Dog Star’s radiance contributed to the intense heat experienced during this time of year.
The name “dog days” can be seen as an allusion to the constellation Canis Major, which represents a dog. The Romans believed that Sirius, being the brightest star in this constellation, had a significant influence on the weather and climate. They attributed the extreme heat and humidity of August to the Dog Star’s presence in the sky.
It is important to note that the concept of the dog days of summer predates the Romans and can be found in ancient Greek and Egyptian cultures as well. The Egyptians, for instance, associated the rising of Sirius with the annual flooding of the Nile River, an event that marked the beginning of their agricultural year.
While the scientific basis for the dog days of summer may not hold up today, the term has persisted in popular culture. It has become a colloquial expression used to describe the hottest and most oppressive days of summer, typically occurring in July and August in the Northern Hemisphere.
The dog days of summer are often characterized by sweltering temperatures, high humidity levels, and a general feeling of lethargy. Many people seek relief by staying indoors, swimming, or enjoying cold beverages. It is a time when air conditioning, fans, and ice cream become essential tools for combating the heat.
Personally, I have experienced the dog days of summer in various parts of the world. Growing up in a tropical country, I remember the oppressive heat and humidity that would envelop us during August. The air felt heavy, and even a short walk outside could leave one drenched in sweat. It was during these days that the coolness of air-conditioned rooms and refreshing dips in the pool became a welcome respite.
August is called the dog days of summer because of the ancient Romans’ association of the hottest days of summer with the star Sirius, also known as the Dog Star. This connection between Sirius and the scorching heat of August has persisted throughout history, leading to the term “dog days” being used colloquially to describe the most sweltering days of summer.