perihelion

noun

peri·​he·​lion ˌper-ə-ˈhēl-yən How to pronounce perihelion (audio)
plural perihelia ˌper-ə-ˈhēl-yə How to pronounce perihelion (audio)
: the point nearest to the sun in the path of an orbiting celestial body (such as a planet) compare aphelion
perihelial adjective

Examples of perihelion 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.
But at perihelion, the comet appeared only half that distance away from the sun. Joe Rao, Space.com, 27 Jan. 2025 In the days following its perihelion, people around the world snapped some stunning pictures of the comet and its spectacular tail. Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 24 Jan. 2025 Not every comet survives perihelion, but scientists are still assessing ATLAS G3 and its prospects. Amanda Kooser, Forbes, 23 Jan. 2025 The comet passed and survived its closest point to the sun, known as perihelion, on Jan. 13, 2025. Brett Tingley, Space.com, 5 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for perihelion

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from peri- + Greek hēlios sun — more at solar

First Known Use

1666, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of perihelion was in 1666

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Cite this Entry

“Perihelion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/perihelion. Accessed 29 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

perihelion

noun
peri·​he·​lion ˌper-ə-ˈhēl-yən How to pronounce perihelion (audio)
: the point in the path of a heavenly body (as a planet) that is nearest to the sun

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