exoplanet
EK-soh-PLAN-it
/ˌɛksoʊˈplænɪt/
A planet that orbits a star other than the Sun.
Distinguishes planets within our solar system from those outside it. The study of exoplanets is a relatively new and rapidly expanding field of astronomy.
The story behind the word. The word 'exoplanet' is a modern coinage, combining the Greek prefix `exo-`, meaning 'outside' or 'external,' with the word 'planet.' It literally means 'outside planet,' perfectly describing a planet that exists beyond our own solar system. This term emerged as astronomers began to confirm the existence of such worlds in the 1990s.
Word relationships
- extrasolar planet: A more formal and older term, but 'exoplanet' is now more common.
Commonly confused with
- planet: An exoplanet is a type of planet, specifically one that orbits a star other than our Sun. 'Planet' is the general term.
Collocations
- habitable exoplanet
- super-Earth exoplanet
- gas giant exoplanet
- transiting exoplanet
- distant exoplanet
Example sentences
- "Scientists have discovered thousands of exoplanets, some of which may have conditions suitable for life." Describing astronomical discovery.
- "Future telescopes are being designed specifically to detect and characterize the atmospheres of distant exoplanets." Discussing future space missions.
Memory hook
An EXOskeleton is outside the body; an EXOPLANET is a planet outside our solar system. EXO-PLANET = outside planet.
When not to use
Do not use 'exoplanet' for planets within our solar system (e.g., Mars, Jupiter).
Fun facts
- The first confirmed exoplanet was 51 Pegasi b, discovered in 1995.
- The Kepler Space Telescope discovered thousands of exoplanets using the transit method.
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