exoplanet

[ek-soh-plan-it]

noun

Astronomy.

1. a planet that revolves around a star other than the sun.

exoplanet

/ ˈɛksəʊˌplænɪt /

noun

1. a planet that orbits a star in a solar system other than that of Earth

exoplanet

1. See extrasolar planet

Other Word Forms

• exoplanetary adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of exoplanet¹

First recorded in 1970–75; exo- + planet

Example Sentences

After carefully observing and studying the data from the instrument for more than 3 years, the team found solid evidence of four exoplanets around Barnard's star.

Read more on Space Scoop

This new exoplanet is special — its orbit looks more like a Ferris wheel!

Read more on Space Scoop

Scientists are particularly excited about this discovery because of the similarities between the exoplanet's star and our Sun.

Read more on BBC

As these so-called exoplanets were being discovered, scientists began to develop instruments to analyse the chemical composition of their atmospheres.

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While many exoplanets are Venus-like, the study suggests that astronomers should narrow their focus to exoplanets which are more like Earth.

Read more on Science Daily