perihelion

noun

peri·​he·​lion ˌper-ə-ˈhēl-yən 

plural perihelia ˌper-ə-ˈhēl-yə 

: the point nearest to the sun in the path of an orbiting celestial body (such as a planet) compare aphelion

perihelial

ˌper-ə-ˈhēl-yəl 

adjective

Examples of perihelion in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

During green periods, however, Earth’s precession is such that the direct rays of summer sun and perihelion occur at the same time, giving the Sahara a 7-percent rise in overall solar radiation compared to today. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 18 June 2026

That duration is extended because Earth is near perihelion in early January, when the sun appears marginally larger than average. — Jamie Carter, Space.com, 10 June 2026

Observers in the Southern Hemisphere will be able to spot the comet from late April, after the comet passes perihelion, just after sunset on the western horizon. — Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 20 Apr. 2026

That closest approach to the sun, a moment known as perihelion, is slated to happen Sunday, April 19. — Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 15 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1666, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for perihelion

• abelian
• hegelian
• karelian
• aristotelian
• elian

Kids Definition

perihelion

noun

peri·​he·​lion ˌper-ə-ˈhēl-yən 

: the point in the path of a heavenly body (as a planet) that is nearest to the sun