major planet

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Explanation of "Major Planet"

Definition: A "major planet" is a noun used in astronomy to refer to any of the large celestial bodies in our solar system that orbit the Sun. These planets are visible from Earth and shine because they reflect sunlight. The major planets are Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and, historically, Pluto (though Pluto is now classified as a "dwarf planet").

Usage Instructions:

You can use "major planet" when talking about the solar system and the different planets that exist. It is important to note that there are eight major planets recognized today (Pluto is not considered a major planet anymore).

Example Sentence:

• "Mars is a major planet known for its red color and is often called the 'Red Planet.'"

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced discussions, you might hear about the characteristics of major planets, such as their atmospheres, surfaces, and orbits. For example: - "Jupiter is the largest major planet and has a strong magnetic field."

Word Variants:

• Majority (noun) – This refers to the greater number of something.
• Major (adjective) – This can describe something that is larger or more important.

Different Meanings:

• In a non-astronomical context, "major" can refer to anything that is significant or important, such as a "major decision" or "major event."

Synonyms:

• Planet – When referring to any celestial body, though "major planet" specifies the larger ones.
• Celestial body – This is a broader term that includes all types of heavenly objects, such as stars and moons.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While there are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "major planet," you might encounter phrases that involve the word "major," such as: - "Major in" – This means to specialize in a subject at a school (e.g., "I decided to major in astronomy.").

Summary:

"Major planet" refers specifically to the large planets in our solar system that orbit the Sun and reflect light. You can use this term when discussing astronomy and the structure of our solar system.

Academic

Noun

1. (astronomy) any of the nine large celestial bodies in the solar system that revolve around the sun and shine by reflected light; Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto in order of their proximity to the sun; viewed from the constellation Hercules, all the planets rotate around the sun in a counterclockwise direction

Synonyms

• planet