1
: the Greek god of the underworld compare dis
2
[New Latin] : a dwarf planet occupying an orbit that crosses the orbit of Neptune
Is Pluto a planet?: Usage Guide

In 2006 the International Astronomical Union defined planet in such a way as to exclude Pluto, reclassifying it instead as a dwarf planet. Although discussion of the matter continues, the change has been widely accepted.

Examples of Pluto 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.
In the morning rush to make it out the door, Mickey and Pluto are left behind and home alone. — Matt Minton, Variety, 16 June 2026 It’s been nearly two years since the last Future solo album, 2024’s Mixtape Pluto. — Alex Suskind, Pitchfork, 15 June 2026 All episodes of Hart of Dixie are available to stream on Pluto TV. — Lexi Lane, PEOPLE, 13 June 2026 Under his watch, Pluto TV hit $1 billion in annual revenue by 2021. — Michael Schneider, Variety, 10 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for Pluto

Word History

Etymology

Latin Pluton-, Pluto, from Greek Ploutōn

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of Pluto was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pluto.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Pluto. Accessed 29 Sep. 2026.

Kids Definition

: a large object in the outermost part of the solar system that is often considered one of the planets see note at planet

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