orbiter

noun

or·​bit·​er ˈȯr-bə-tər How to pronounce orbiter (audio)
: one that orbits: such as
a
: a spacecraft designed to orbit a celestial body without landing on its surface

Examples of orbiter in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
High-resolution imagery from orbiters circling around Mars has allowed researchers to zoom in on towering mound features on the surface of the red planet. Ashley Strickland, CNN, 25 Jan. 2025 The orbiters carry sensors, cameras and other scientific instruments that collect a range of data. Ashley Strickland, CNN, 25 Jan. 2025 The two orbiters will collaborate to investigate Mercury’s origin and evolution and its internal structure, geological features, composition, and craters. Jamie Carter, Forbes, 15 Jan. 2025 The return orbiter and sample retrieval lander could launch as soon as 2030 and 2031, respectively. Stephen Clark, Ars Technica, 8 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for orbiter

Word History

First Known Use

1951, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of orbiter was in 1951

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Orbiter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/orbiter. Accessed 3 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

orbiter

noun
or·​bit·​er ˈȯr-bət-ər How to pronounce orbiter (audio)
1
: one that orbits
2
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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