cynosure noun 1. something that strongly attracts attention by its brilliance, interest, etc.: the cynosure of all eyes. 2. something serving for guidance or direction. word origin:1590-1600; < Latin Cynosūra < Greek Kynósoura the constellation Ursa Minor, equivalent to kynós dog's (genitive of kýōn) + ourá tail. Polaris is in the constellation Ursa Minor, thus comes the serving for guidance or direction.