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satellite
/ˈsætəlaɪt/
an object orbiting a larger body
The satellite orbits Earth to collect weather data.
A satellite circles Earth to gather information about weather patterns.
Technology
technical
an artificial object placed into orbit around Earth or another celestial body to collect data or facilitate communication
NASA launched a new satellite to monitor climate change.
NASA sent a satellite into space to track environmental changes.
Satellites can be used for communication, navigation, weather forecasting, and scientific research.
formal
a celestial body that orbits a larger body, such as a moon orbiting a planet
Earth is a satellite of the Sun.
Earth revolves around the Sun, making it a satellite of the Sun.
In astronomy, natural satellites are often called moons.
Collocations
artificial satellitea man-made object in orbitgeostationary satellitea satellite that stays fixed relative to a point on Earth's surface
Synonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Natural vs. Artificial
Remember that 'satellite' can refer to both natural (like moons) and artificial objects (like communication satellites).
Gold Rule
Technical Context
In technical contexts, 'satellite' usually refers to artificial objects used for communication or data collection.
Word Origin
From Old French 'satellite', from Latin 'satelles', meaning 'attendant' or 'guard'.
Usage Notes
The term 'satellite' can refer to both natural (e.g., moons) and artificial objects in orbit.
Word Breakdown
sat
from Latin 'satelles', meaning 'attendant'
root-ellite
suffix indicating a small attendant object
suffixEnglish Dictionary