meteor

noun

me·​te·​or ˈmē-tē-ər 

-ˌȯr

1

: an atmospheric phenomenon (such as lightning or a snowfall)

2

a

: any of the small particles of matter in the solar system that are directly observable only by their incandescence from frictional heating on entry into the atmosphere

b

: the streak of light produced by the passage of a meteor

Examples of meteor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Though there will be a few hours before dawn when the moon sets below the western horizon, granting peak meteor hunting conditions. — Anthony Wood, Space.com, 24 Aug. 2026

Sonic booms, volcanic eruptions and meteor airbursts can produce similar atmospheric shock waves, potentially creating other natural seismic sources. — Nolan Roth, Scientific American, 23 Aug. 2026

After 20 years zipping across the galaxy, saving the planet from falling meteors and alien invaders, Hal is resting on his laurels. — Ben Travers, IndieWire, 14 Aug. 2026

Every year during the summertime, dozens of swift and bright Perseid meteors streak the skies with long wakes of color and light in the Northern Hemisphere. — Adriana Pérez, Chicago Tribune, 12 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English metheour, from Middle French meteore, from Medieval Latin meteorum, from Greek meteōron, from neuter of meteōros high in air, from meta- + -eōros, from aeirein to lift

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing meteor

• meteor shower

Kids Definition

meteor

noun

me·​te·​or ˈmēt-ē-ər 

-ē-ˌȯ(ə)r

: one of the small bodies of matter in the solar system observable when it falls into the earth's atmosphere where the heat of friction may cause it to glow brightly for a short time

also : the streak of light produced by the passage of a meteor