orbit

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   The curved path an object follows as it circles a planet, star, or other body in space.

   The satellite is now in orbit around the Earth.

2. 2
   verb

   To move in a curved path around another object.

   The Earth orbits the Sun once a year.

3. 3
   noun

   An area of influence, interest, or control.

   Several small nations fell into the orbit of the great power.

Inherited from Middle English orbite, orbita, from Latin orbita (“course, track, impression, mark”).

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