Planetarium

/ˌplæn.ɪˈtɛr.i.əm/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A building or room where images of celestial bodies are projected for educational or entertainment purposes.
The children were mesmerized by the stars and planets at the local planetarium.
An instrument used for demonstrating the positions and motions of celestial bodies.
The teacher used a planetarium to explain the movements of the planets around the sun.

Etymology

From Latin 'planeta', meaning 'wanderer' (referring to planets) and Greek 'arium', meaning 'place'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

visit the planetarium
to go to a planetarium for educational or recreational purposes
planetarium show
a presentation or film projected in a planetarium
star gazing at the planetarium
observing stars and celestial events at a planetarium facility

Related Words

astronomy
The scientific study of celestial bodies, space, and the universe.
telescope
An optical instrument used to make distant objects appear closer.
orbits
The curved path of a celestial object around a star, planet, or moon.

Slang Meanings

Star dome
The kids were amazed when they saw the show in the star dome.
Sky theater
Let's head over to the sky theater for the latest space show.