Astronaut

/ˈæs.trə.nɔːt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A person trained to travel in a spacecraft and conduct space missions.
The astronaut prepared for launch by undergoing extensive training.
An individual who participates in space exploration, especially missions involving travel beyond Earth's atmosphere.
She always dreamed of becoming an astronaut since she was a child.
A member of a space crew who operates the spacecraft and performs scientific experiments in space.
The astronaut conducted experiments aboard the International Space Station.
A person who has traveled in outer space.
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

Space jockey
He's a real space jockey, always dreaming of flying to Mars.
Stargazer
Ever since he was a kid, he's been a stargazer, hoping to become an astronaut.