E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Cy’nosure (3 syl.).
The polar star; the observed of all observers. Greek for dog’s tail, and applied to the constellation called Ursa Minor. As seamen guide their ships by the north star, and observe it well, the word “cynosure” is used for whatever attracts attention, as “The cynosure of neighbouring eyes” (Milton), especially for guidance in some doubtful matter, as—
1
“Richmond was the cynosure on which all Northern eyes were fixed [in the American war].”—The Times.
