Pluto

noun

Plu·​to ˈplü-(ˌ)tō 

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

The baby hippo, who doesn't yet have a name, was born to parents Pluto and Posie. —Greta Cross, USA Today, 12 July 2025

Diehard fans of Big Brother, of course, are anxiously awaiting the live 24/7 feeds, which will be accessible on paramount+ Premium and Pluto TV effective on Sunday, July 13 at 9:30 p.m. ET following the second telecast on CBS. —Marc Berman, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025

Born in the real 2006, Vic would’ve entered an America launching Twitter, discovering Taylor Swift, transporting Saddam Hussein, and reclassifying Pluto as a dwarf. —Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 11 July 2025

They are often tied to the shadow aspects of life due to their planetary rulers: Mars (the planet of war) and Pluto (the planet of intensity). —Kyle Thomas, People.com, 11 July 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin Pluton-, Pluto, from Greek Ploutōn

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for Pluto

• basuto
• prosciutto

Kids Definition

Pluto

noun

Plu·​to ˈplüt-ō 

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