Astronaut Meaning and Definition
Astronaut
Pronunciation
/əˈstrənɔt/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A person who travels in space and stays in orbit around the Earth, typically as part of a space mission or expedition.
Etymology
The word ‘Astronaut’ comes from the Greek words ‘astron,’ meaning star, and ‘nautis,’ meaning sailor or navigator. The term was coined in 1959 by NASA to describe the personnel who would be involved in the Space Program.
Usage Notes
Astronauts are often associated with space exploration, but the term can also refer to anyone who travels in space, including cosmonauts and space tourists.
Cultural References
Astronauts have appeared in numerous movies, books, and TV shows, including ‘Space Cowboys,’ ‘Gravity,’ and ‘The Right Stuff.’
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- The stars align for you
- In orbit around the Earth
Related Words or Phrases
- Cosmonaut
- Spacecraft
- Astronomer
- Space Mission
Collocations
- Astronaut walks in space
- Astronaut spends hours in space
- Astronaut travels to new planets
Frequency of Use
The word ‘Astronaut’ is relatively rare in everyday conversation, but it is frequently used in the context of space exploration and scientific research.
Common Misspellings
- Asteroid
- Astronome
- Astronot
Additional Information
Astronauts undergo rigorous training to prepare for space travel, which includes learning about spacewalk procedures, spacecraft systems, and coping with zero-gravity environments.
Astronauts are selected based on their physical and mental abilities, as well as their educational background and experience in fields related to space exploration.