Asteroids Meaning and Definition
Asteroids
Pronunciation
/ˈæstərɔɪdz/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A small, rocky or metallic celestial body that orbits the Sun, as opposed to a planet.
Etymology
The term “asteroid” is derived from the Greek words “astēr” meaning “star” and “eidos” meaning “form” or “shape”.
Usage Notes
Asteroids are often classified as minor planets or planetoids. The term “asteroid” is used to describe celestial bodies that are too small to be considered planets but are large enough to be rounded by their own gravity.
Additional Information
Asteroids can be found in various regions of the solar system, but most are located in the asteroid belt between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter. Some asteroids are thought to be the remnants of a planet that never formed in the early days of the solar system, while others are fragments of a planet that was destroyed.
Asteroids vary greatly in size, ranging from a few meters to hundreds of kilometers in diameter. Some asteroids are thought to be comets, which have lost their tails due to the intense heat of the sun.
Cultural References
Asteroids have been featured in various forms of media, including films, video games, and literature. One of the most famous depictions of asteroids is the asteroid Ceres, which is often referred to as a dwarf planet.
Idiomatic Expressions or PhrasesAsteroids are often used metaphorically to describe small, insignificant objects or things that are of little consequence.
Related Words or Phrases
- Planet
- Comet
- Meteorite
Collocations
- Asteroids in the asteroid belt
- Asteroids and comets
- Asteroids are a threat to Earth
Frequency of Use
Asteroids are relatively rare in modern language, but they are often used in scientific and astronomical contexts.
Common Misspellings
- Astroid
- Asteriod