The synodic month, also known as the lunar month, is the time it takes for the Moon to return to the same phase (new, full, etc.) as observed from Earth. There are various synonyms for this term, including the lunation, lunar cycle, lunar orbit period, and lunar month. These terms describe the same phenomenon but are used interchangeably in different contexts. Understanding the length of the synodic month is crucial for predicting the occurrence of lunar phases and eclipses, as well as for lunar calendar systems. Overall, whether you refer to it as a synodic month or lunation, the concept remains the same - the Moon's journey through its phases.