Meaning & Definition of word "Astronaut"
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Astronaut
/ˈæs.trə.nɔːt/
noun:
- 1. A person trained to travel in a spacecraft and conduct space missions.
- Example: The astronaut prepared for launch by undergoing extensive training.
- 2. An individual who participates in space exploration, especially missions involving travel beyond Earth's atmosphere.
- Example: She always dreamed of becoming an astronaut since she was a child.
- 3. A member of a space crew who operates the spacecraft and performs scientific experiments in space.
- Example: The astronaut conducted experiments aboard the International Space Station.
- 4. A person who has traveled in outer space.
- Example: He was celebrated as a hero after returning from his journey as an astronaut.
Etymology
From the Greek words 'astro-' meaning 'star' and 'nautes' meaning 'sailor'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
moonwalk:
A term often used to describe astronauts walking on the moon.
spacewalk:
Referring to an activity in which astronauts leave their spacecraft to work in space.
zero gravity:
A condition in space where no gravitational force is felt.
launch pad:
The area from which a spacecraft is launched.
Related Words
spaceship:
A vehicle designed for travel or operation in outer space.
mission control:
The team responsible for monitoring and managing space missions.
payload:
The cargo carried by a spacecraft, including astronauts and equipment.
Slang Meanings of astronaut
Meaning: Space jockey
Example Sentence: He's a real space jockey, always dreaming of flying to Mars.
Meaning: Stargazer
Example Sentence: Ever since he was a kid, he's been a stargazer, hoping to become an astronaut.