rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryorbitPath around another body
noun / verb

orbit

OR-bit/ˈɔːrbɪt/

A curved path around another body, or movement along that path.

The planet follows an elliptical orbit around the glowing star.

A planet follows a thin elliptical orbital path around a glowing star located at one focus, not the center.
Etymology
orbitLatinwheel track, rut, course

Latin orbita meant a wheel track or beaten path and also a heavenly body's course. The astronomical meaning treats motion through space as following a track.

In context

Science ABC0:09
Earth, our home planet, is locked in an elliptical path around the sun. This elliptical path is known as the orbit of our planet.
Lunar and Solar Eclipse Explained: A Beginner’s Guide to Eclipses

More examples

  • The moon orbits Earth about once a month.
  • The satellite stays in orbit for years.
  • Several moons orbit Jupiter.

Forms

orbit · orbits · orbited · orbiting

orbital adjective — Relating to a body's path around another.

orbiter noun — A spacecraft that travels around another body.

Similar words

circle
Means to move around something, not necessarily under gravity.
revolve
Emphasizes repeated movement around a central body or point.