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Planetary Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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planetary

[หˆplรฆnษชtษ™ri ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

relating to planets

The term 'planetary' refers to anything related to planets, especially in the context of astronomy. It can describe physical characteristics, movements, or phenomena occurring on or involving planets. For example, planetary science is a field dedicated to the study of planets, moons, and planetary systems. It encompasses various disciplines including geology, atmospheric science, and astrophysics. The term can also pertain to the broader universe, indicating relationships and characteristics inherent to celestial bodies.

Synonyms

astronomical, celestial, orbital.

Examples of usage

  • Planetary motion affects satellite trajectories.
  • The planetary atmosphere is crucial for weather patterns.
  • Planetary exploration has advanced significantly over the years.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Astronomy

  • In our solar system, there are eight recognized planets: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune.
  • Dwarf planets like Pluto and Eris exist too, blurring the lines of what makes a 'planet'.
  • Exoplanets are planets that exist outside our solar system, with thousands discovered in recent years.

Science

  • The study of planetary science combines astronomy, geology, and atmospheric studies to understand how planets form, evolve, and are structured.
  • Planetary geology explores features like craters, mountains, and volcanic activity on both our own and other celestial bodies.

Culture

  • In astrology, a planetary alignment is believed to influence human affairs and personality traits.
  • Throughout history, different cultures have associated various gods or myths with the planets visible in the night sky, influencing art and religion.

Literature

  • Science fiction literature often imagines life on other planets and explores themes of space colonization and alien civilizations.
  • Authors such as Isaac Asimov and Arthur C. Clarke have used planetary themes to raise philosophical questions about humanity's place in the universe.

Origin of 'planetary'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'planeta', which means 'wandering star', as ancient observers saw planets move against the background of stars.
  • The old Greek word 'planetes' means 'wanderer', reflecting how these celestial bodies travel through the sky.

The word 'planetary' originates from the Middle English term 'planetarie', taken from the Latin word 'planetarius', which itself is derived from 'planeta' meaning 'planet'. The concept of 'planets' comes from the Greek word 'planetes', which means 'wanderer', referring to the movement of these celestial bodies across the night sky. The notion of planets dates back to ancient civilizations who observed these wandering lights before the advent of modern astronomy. Over centuries, the understanding of planetary bodies evolved, influencing both scientific and cultural perspectives regarding the universe. The prefix 'plan-' in 'planetary' indicates a focus on planets, further solidifying its relevance in astrological and scientific discussions.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,176, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.