Langimage
English

satellite

|sat/el/lite|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈsætəˌlaɪt/

🇬🇧

/ˈsætəlaɪt/

orbiting body

Etymology
Etymology Information

'satellite' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'satellitem,' where 'satelles' meant 'attendant' or 'companion.'

Historical Evolution

'satellitem' transformed into the French word 'satellite,' and eventually became the modern English word 'satellite' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'attendant or companion,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'an object in orbit.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

an artificial body placed in orbit around the earth or another planet to collect information or for communication.

The satellite transmitted data back to Earth.

Synonyms

Noun 2

a celestial body orbiting another of larger size, such as a moon orbiting a planet.

The moon is a natural satellite of Earth.

Synonyms

Noun 3

a country or organization that is controlled by or depends on a more powerful one.

The small nation became a satellite of the larger empire.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35