shooting star

noun

1. meteor.

2. Also called prairie pointer. Also called American cowslip. any of several North American plants of the genus Dodecatheon, especially D. meadia, having pink or white flowers with reflexed petals and stamens forming a pointed beak.

shooting star

noun

1. an informal name for meteor

Word History and Origins

Origin of shooting star¹

First recorded in 1585–95

Example Sentences

Unfortunately, a nearly full moon for Southern California spectators made it very difficult to see shooting stars.

From Los Angeles Times

The shower lights up the skies each summer, and is known for its bright, fast-moving meteors - often dubbed "shooting stars".

From BBC

“Punk rock is like a shooting star. I knew it wasn’t going to last,” he says.

From Los Angeles Times

Once hopeful viewers are “far from urban encroachment,” their chance of catching more shooting stars is much better, he said.

From Los Angeles Times

This year’s Bruins say they were inspired by a meaningful event — two separate shooting star sightings during a fall movie night at Easton Field while hosting parents and recruits.

From Los Angeles Times