North Star
nounEtymology From Middle English north sterre, norþ sterre, equivalent to north + star.
1
Figuratively An aim or a goal, a dependable guiding light in a quickly changing world.
- For Wilson, his religion served as guiding principle, not a series of explicit religious dictates governing politics: “Wilson's principles, derived from his religious faith, were his North Star, which pointed him in a general direction.2012, Darrin Grinder, Steve Shaw, The Presidents & Their Faith:
- His North Star was Rome, his compass was the Holy Office, “My polar star is Rome; my compass is the Holy Office.”2018, Frank M. Guttman, Honoré Beaugrand: a Traditional “Rouge”?:
2 more examples
- Believing that he would return to life when he was ready, she became his North Star.2019, Karen A. McClintock, When Trauma Wounds: Pathways to Healing and Hope, page 155:
- The wise voice in my head agreed with her and told me something I'd never forget: Stop going against yourself. Be you. All the way. And watch life work for you. This voice, my intuition, has become my North Star in life.2021, Ashley Stahl, You Turn, page 272:
- Derived terms
- NSM