Astronaut: meaning, definitions and examples

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astronaut

[ˈastrəˌnɔːt ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

space exploration

An astronaut is a person trained to travel and work in outer space. They are part of a space mission crew and are responsible for conducting experiments, maintaining spacecraft, and performing spacewalks.

Synonyms

cosmonaut, space traveler, spacefarer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
astronaut	Commonly used in American English, it specifically refers to a person trained to travel and work in space, especially as part of the United States' space program. Neil Armstrong was the first astronaut to walk on the moon. The astronaut prepared for the space mission.
cosmonaut	This term is used primarily in Russian and Eastern European contexts, referring to a person trained and certified by the Russian space program to work in space. Yuri Gagarin was the first cosmonaut to orbit the Earth. The Russian cosmonaut spent six months aboard the International Space Station.
space traveler	A more general term that can refer to any person who travels to space, not necessarily professional astronauts or cosmonauts. This term is often used for space tourists. The space traveler spent a week on a commercial space flight. As space tourism becomes more common, more space travelers are expected.
spacefarer	This term carries a more poetic or literary tone, referring to anyone who travels or journeys through space. It is less common in formal or professional contexts. In his sci-fi novel, the spacefarer explored distant galaxies. The legend spoke of daring spacefarers who ventured beyond the stars.

Examples of usage

Astronauts undergo rigorous training before being sent to space.
The astronauts aboard the International Space Station conduct various scientific experiments.
Astronauts wear specialized suits to protect them from the harsh conditions of space.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term comes from the Greek words 'astron' meaning 'star' and 'nautes' meaning 'sailor'.
It was first used in the mid-20th century as space travel became a reality.

History

The first human in space was Yuri Gagarin, a Soviet astronaut, who orbited Earth in 1961.
The United States launched its first astronaut, Alan Shepard, on a suborbital flight in 1961, shortly after Gagarin.

Technology

Astronauts use specialized suits that protect them from the vacuum of space and extreme temperatures.
Spacecraft are engineered to withstand radiation and microgravity conditions, enabling astronauts to live and work in space.

Science

Astronauts conduct experiments in microgravity that help scientists understand everything from human health to materials science.
Research in space has led to advancements in medicine, such as improved cancer treatments and better drug delivery systems.

Pop Culture

Astronauts have been portrayed in books, movies, and television, often symbolizing exploration and adventure, such as in 'Star Trek' and 'Interstellar'.
Children's media often features astronauts as heroes, inspiring future generations to pursue careers in science and technology.

Translations

Translations of the word "astronaut" in other languages:

🇵🇹 astronauta

🇮🇳 अंतरिक्ष यात्री

🇩🇪 Astronaut

🇮🇩 astronot

🇺🇦 астронавт

🇵🇱 astronauta

🇯🇵 宇宙飛行士

🇫🇷 astronaute

🇪🇸 astronauta

🇹🇷 astronot

🇰🇷 우주 비행사

🇸🇦 رائد فضاء

🇨🇿 astronaut

🇸🇰 astronaut

🇨🇳 宇航员

🇸🇮 astronavt

🇮🇸 geimfari

🇰🇿 ғарышкер

🇬🇪 ასტრონავტი

🇦🇿 astronavt

🇲🇽 astronauta

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,264, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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22261 copiously
22262 cramp
22263 abetted
22264 astronaut
22265 testicles
22266 jugs
22267 storied
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