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

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

From BBC

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

From BBC

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

From Science Daily

"Studying connections between different atmospheric layers is very important for all planets, whether it's an exoplanet, Jupiter or Earth," Wong said.

From Science Daily

Planets about the size of Uranus and Neptune -- so-called sub-Neptune planets -- are among the most common exoplanets discovered to date.

From Science Daily