falling star

American  

noun

1. an incandescent meteor; a shooting star.

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falling star British  

noun

1. an informal name for meteor

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Etymology

Origin of falling star

First recorded in 1555–65

Example Sentences

“That would be like wishing on a falling star,” he said.

From Seattle Times

One of the saddest moments is fleeting, when Morse catches a falling star . . . violinist.

From Salon

Southern Californians have a more than decent shot at wishing upon a “falling star” this weekend.

From Los Angeles Times

The club’s name was a twist on the Perry Como song “Catch a Falling Star.”

From Washington Post

To observe Orson playing soccer on the campgrounds, he says, “was like watching a falling star rocket effortlessly through the sky.”

From New York Times