huvudstjärna

Huvudstjärna is a Swedish term that translates to "main star" or "leading star." It is most commonly used in the context of astronomy and astrophysics to refer to the most massive and luminous star in a multiple star system, or the star around which other celestial bodies, such as planets or companion stars, orbit. In a binary star system, for instance, the huvudstjärna is the larger and brighter of the two stars. The term emphasizes the star's gravitational dominance and its central role in the system's dynamics.

Beyond astronomy, "huvudstjärna" can also be used metaphorically. In a non-technical context, it can describe the primary or most important element in a group or endeavor. For example, a prominent performer in a play might be referred to as the huvudstjärna, or a key research finding could be considered the huvudstjärna of a scientific paper. This broader usage highlights the concept of a central, defining, or most significant component. The literal and metaphorical meanings both convey the idea of something being at the forefront or center of attention.