solar system

noun

: the sun together with the group of celestial bodies that are held by its attraction and revolve around it
also : a similar system centered on another star

Examples of solar system 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.
Auroras Across The Solar System: Planets Neptune joins a growing list of solar system bodies that exhibit auroral activity. Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 26 Mar. 2025 Statistical models suggest that there could be as many as 25,000 such objects in the solar system, in addition to countless smaller asteroids that could also do considerable damage, said Amy Mainzer, a UCLA professor of planetary science who is leading the NEO Surveyor mission for NASA. Corinne Purtill, Los Angeles Times, 26 Mar. 2025 That implies the humanization of the solar system, which takes our focus back to the health and well-being of children. Dave S. Brody, Space.com, 26 Mar. 2025 No mega-engineering projects reshaping other solar systems. ArsTechnica, 26 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for solar system

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1704, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of solar system was circa 1704

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Solar system.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/solar%20system. Accessed 2 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

solar system

noun
: a star with the group of heavenly bodies that revolve around it
especially : the sun with the planets, moons, asteroids, and comets that orbit it

More from Merriam-Webster on solar system

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!