inferior planet

noun

: either of the planets Mercury and Venus whose orbits lie within that of the earth compare superior planet

Examples of inferior planet 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.
As always, extreme caution must be taken when observing an inferior planet to never point a telescope or binoculars near the rising or setting sun, as doing so can permanently damage your vision. Anthony Wood, Space.com, 31 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1633, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inferior planet was in 1633

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Inferior planet.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inferior%20planet. Accessed 21 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

inferior planet

noun
: a planet (as Venus) whose orbit is closer to the sun than that of Earth
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!