Almanack

Almanack, an alternate spelling of almanac, refers to a type of annual reference work that aggregates data and information for a given year. Traditional almanacks typically combined a calendar, weather forecasts, astronomical data, tide tables, planting guides, and miscellaneous notes or trivia. The scope and emphasis of an almanack can vary by region and publisher, but the format has historically served both practical and curatorial functions for farmers, mariners, scholars, and general readers.

Etymology and spellings: the term derives from medieval Latin almanachus, via Old French almanach and Italian almanacco, with the English form evolving as almanack and almanac. The spelling with ck was common in earlier centuries, while almanac became the prevailing modern form in most English-speaking regions.

Contents and uses: typical contents include calendars, astronomical data such as sunrise and sunset times, lunar phases, eclipses, and positions of planets; weather forecasts and climate notes; tide tables and nautical information; planting calendars and horticultural guidance; and historical or anecdotal items. Many almanacs also provide regional data, recipes, and reference tables.

Notable examples: The Old Farmer’s Almanac (founded 1792) and the Farmers’ Almanac (founded 1818) are among the best known United States titles, emphasizing weather lore and practical advice. Nautical and astronomical almanacs, such as The Nautical Almanac and The Astronomical Almanac, have long served navigational and scientific communities. In the modern era, some almanacs persist as periodicals or digital references, preserving the traditional format in updated forms.

See also: almanac, calendar, ephemeris.