solar system

noun

: the sun together with the group of celestial bodies that are held by its attraction and revolve around it
also : a similar system centered on another star

Examples of solar system 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.
It's become fashionable to deny this, maintaining that the solar system must still have nine planets. Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 17 June 2025 The Milky Way galaxy is around 100,000 light-years in diameter, containing our solar system and many other objects. Kenna Hughes-Castleberry, Space.com, 16 June 2025 But the reality is this, the closest solar system is Alpha Centauri. Sarah Rumpf-Whitten, FOXNews.com, 15 June 2025 Astronomy toys include items such as model solar systems and telescopes, while electronics sets feature circuitry toys and electronic components. Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 11 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for solar system

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1704, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of solar system was circa 1704

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Cite this Entry

“Solar system.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/solar%20system. Accessed 27 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

solar system

noun
: a star with the group of heavenly bodies that revolve around it
especially : the sun with the planets, moons, asteroids, and comets that orbit it

More from Merriam-Webster on solar system

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