rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryinterstellarBetween stars
adjective

interstellar

in-ter-STEL-er/ˌɪntərˈstelər/

Existing, occurring, or traveling between stars.

Clouds of interstellar gas and dust lie between the stars.

A sparse astronomical view of a diffuse gas-and-dust cloud occupying the open space between two clearly recognizable stars, illustrating matter existing between stars.
Etymology
interLatinbetween
+stellLatinstar
+arLatinrelating to

The pieces locate something between or among stars. That spatial meaning applies both to material existing in the space between stars and to travel through that space.

In context

StarTalk8:10
to observe the center of the Milky Way galaxy for stars that emitted their light 30,000 years ago traveling through the gaps of interstellar space
Neil deGrasse Tyson Explains Time Dilation

More examples

  • Interstellar travel requires crossing enormous distances.
  • Astronomers study interstellar dust to learn how stars form.
  • The probe sends data back from interstellar space.

Forms

interstellar

stellar adjective — Relating to stars or their light.

Similar words

cosmic
Concerns the universe generally, not specifically the space between stars.
galactic
Relates to a galaxy, rather than specifically to spaces between stars.