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Definition of "orbit" []

  • The path of a celestial body or an artificial satellite as it revolves around another body. (noun)
  • One complete revolution of such a body. (noun)
  • The path of a body in a field of force surrounding another body; for example, the movement of an atomic electron in relation to a nucleus. (noun)
  • A range of activity, experience, or knowledge. (noun)
  • A range of control or influence: "What magnetism drew these quaking ruined creatures into his orbit?” ( Malcolm Lowry). See Synonyms at range. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Use "orbit" in a sentence
  • "They speak of the sun's motion, and of the sun's orbit, _but they do not say that the earth is the center of that orbit_."
  • "(lower orbit) * period: from mid-March 2009 to late April* operation: 50 km circular orbit* mission: acquisition of the magnetic field of lunar surface using magnetometer and plasma observation system."
  • "Putting an object in orbit is an accomplishment only a few national governments have been able to accomplish."