minor planet

American  

[mahy-ner plan-it] / ˈmaɪ nər ˈplæn ɪt /

noun

Astronomy.

1. asteroid.

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minor planet British  

noun

1. another name for asteroid

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minor planet Scientific  

/ mī′nər /

1. See asteroid

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Etymology

Origin of minor planet

First recorded in 1860–65

Example Sentences

Asteroids, also sometimes called minor planets, are rocky pieces left over from the formation of our solar system about 4.6 billion years ago.

From BBC

The naming of asteroids — which are also known as minor planets or small solar system bodies — is overseen by a group of professional astronomers, part of the International Astronomical Union.

From New York Times

China is also developing experimental technology aimed at mining asteroids and minor planets for natural resources.

From Reuters

The asteroid belt, which sits roughly between Mars and Jupiter, is filled with minor planets and asteroids.

From Salon

Researchers are continuing to study the Kuiper belt, having recently discovered 139 minor planets past Neptune's orbit, giving credence to Witten's idea.

From Fox News