Meaning & use

asteroid

noun·Academic

A small, rocky body that orbits the sun, smaller than a planet.

See it in a sentence

Scientists tracked an asteroid passing safely between Earth and the moon last week.

Most asteroids in our solar system orbit within a belt between Mars and Jupiter.

A note on using this word

Asteroid is distinct from comet, which is made largely of ice and dust rather than rock or metal.

Words with a similar meaning

minor planet

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