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 3 Aug. 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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