Planetary Meaning and Definition
Planetary
Pronunciation
/ˈplænətəri/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A celestial body in orbit around its star, especially a planet with its own atmosphere and geology, formed from the gravitational collapse of a giant molecular cloud.
Etymology
The word ‘Planetary’ comes from the Latin ‘planeta’, meaning ‘wanderer’, and was first used in the 15th century to describe the planets of the solar system. Over time, the term has expanded to include other celestial bodies in our solar system and beyond.
Usage Notes
The word ‘Planetary’ is often used in scientific and astronomical contexts to describe the properties and characteristics of planets and other celestial bodies. It is also used in poetic and literary contexts to evoke a sense of wonder and awe at the vastness of the universe.
Cultural References
The concept of planetary has been featured in numerous films, books, and television shows, including ‘2001: A Space Odyssey’, ‘Interstellar’, and ‘The Expanse’.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“Out of this world” and “Planetary citizenship” are idiomatic expressions that use the word ‘Planetary’ in a more figurative sense.
Related Words or Phrases
- Orbital
- Celestial
- Galactic
Collocations
- “Planetary system”
- “Planetary alignment”
- “Planetary migration”
Frequency of Use
The word ‘Planetary’ is relatively uncommon in everyday conversation, but it is frequently used in scientific and technical contexts, particularly in the fields of astronomy and space exploration.
Common Misspellings
Some common misspellings of the word ‘Planetary’ include ‘Planatary’, ‘Plantery’, and ‘Planitary’.
Additional Information
Planets are formed from the gravitational collapse of giant molecular clouds and are characterized by their unique compositions and atmospheric conditions. They can be classified as terrestrial, gas giants, or icy bodies, and each has its own distinct features and geological processes. Planetary science aims to understand the formation, evolution, and properties of planets, as well as the potential for life beyond Earth.