The word `` solstice '' is derived from the Latin `` sol '' ( sun ) and `` sistere '' ( to stand still ) , because at the solstices , the Sun stands still in declination ; that is , the seasonal movement of the Sun 's path ( as seen from Earth ) comes to a stop before reversing direction .
The name is derived from the Latin words `` sol '' ( `` sun '' ) and `` sistere '' ( `` to stand still '' ) . During the solstice , the Sun stands still ; that is , the seasonal movement of the Sun 's path comes to a stop before reversing direction .