astrometry

noun

as·​trom·​e·​try ə-ˈsträ-mə-trē How to pronounce astrometry (audio)
: a branch of astronomy that deals with measurements (as of positions and movements) of celestial bodies
astrometric adjective

Examples of astrometry 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.
Binzel said that the precision of Apophis' calculated orbital path is due to extensive astrometry and radar ranging over 20 years. Andrew Jones, Space.com, 16 Sep. 2025 At the heart of Gaia’s mapmaking is a technique called astrometry, the measurement of celestial positions and motions in the plane of the sky. Lee Billings, Scientific American, 18 June 2025 There’s astrometry, where scientists look for how an exoplanet causes a host star to move in relation to other stars. Jackie Appel, Popular Mechanics, 6 May 2023

Word History

Etymology

astro- + -metry

First Known Use

1811, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of astrometry was in 1811

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Cite this Entry

“Astrometry.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/astrometry. Accessed 4 Oct. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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