Pluto

noun

Plu·​to ˈplü-(ˌ)tō How to pronounce Pluto (audio)
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
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With Holland coming on board, Tom Ryan, CEO of Paramount Streaming who has overseeing Paramount+ and Pluto TV, is leaving the company. Todd Spangler, Variety, 6 Aug. 2025 The month comes to an end with Venus opposite Pluto, putting your identity under pressure while forcing you to confront power dynamics in your one-on-one relationships. Valerie Mesa, People.com, 5 Aug. 2025 Control issues masquerade behind romantic promises as Venus and Pluto clash. Usa Today, USA Today, 2 Aug. 2025 Whither Pluto? One of the biggest TV-industry crimes of the current decade has been how the last couple of regimes at Paramount have bungled their ownership of free streamer Pluto TV. Chris Lee, Vulture, 31 July 2025 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 19 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

Pluto

noun
Plu·​to ˈplüt-ō How to pronounce Pluto (audio)
: a large object in the outermost part of the solar system that is often considered one of the planets see note at planet

More from Merriam-Webster on Pluto

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