nomon

The term "nomon" has several distinct meanings depending on the context. In horology, a nomon is the part of a sundial that casts the shadow. It is typically a rod or gnomon, oriented parallel to the Earth's axis, which allows for the reading of time by observing the shadow's position on a marked dial. The accuracy of a sundial relies heavily on the precise alignment and design of its nomon.

In a more general sense, "nomon" can also refer to a concept or entity that is considered fundamental or original. This usage is less common and often found in philosophical or theoretical discussions. It implies something that is the source or basis of other things, a primary element from which something else develops.

Historically, the term has also been associated with certain spiritual or mystical traditions, though these uses are largely obscure and not widely recognized. The primary and most widely understood meaning of "nomon" relates to its function in sundials as the shadow-casting component. When encountering the term, it is important to consider the surrounding information to determine which of these meanings is intended.