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

Hundreds or thousands of meteors can be visible per hour during a meteor storm. — Ashley Strickland, CNN Money, 8 Oct. 2026

Under ideal conditions, the Draconids can produce around 5 meteors per hour during their peak,but are capable of producing spectacular displays on rare occasions. — Anthony Wood, Space.com, 7 Oct. 2026

The popular shower can reach 20 meteors per hour during its peak activity. — Karlee Van De Venter, Idaho Statesman, 6 Oct. 2026

The sky rioted with stars, at one point flashing with the entrails of a meteor. — Shi En Kim, AZCentral.com, 21 Sep. 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