VocabDictionary
🇬🇧English to English[extraterrestrial]

extraterrestrial

/ˌek.strə.təˈres.tri.əl/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Originating, existing, or occurring outside the Earth or its atmosphere.

Example Sentences:
  • Astronomers are constantly scanning the stars for signs of extraterrestrial intelligence.
  • The meteorite contained organic compounds of extraterrestrial origin.
2.noun

A hypothetical or fictional being from another world; an alien.

Example Sentences:
  • In many science fiction novels, extraterrestrials are depicted as having advanced technology.
  • The witness claimed to have seen a glowing craft piloted by extraterrestrials.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “extraterrestrial”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Originates from the Latin 'extra' (outside, beyond) and 'terrestris' (belonging to the earth, from 'terra' meaning earth). The term emerged in the mid-19th century to describe phenomena or beings originating outside the limits of the Earth or its atmosphere.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Break it down: 'Extra' (outside) + 'Terrestrial' (Earth). It literally means 'outside Earth'.

Frequently Asked Questions About “extraterrestrial

1. What is the meaning of “extraterrestrial” in English?

In English, extraterrestrial (adjective) is defined as: “Originating, existing, or occurring outside the Earth or its atmosphere.”.

2. How do you use “extraterrestrial” in a sentence?

Astronomers are constantly scanning the stars for signs of extraterrestrial intelligence.

3. What are English synonyms of “extraterrestrial”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “extraterrestrial”?

Originates from the Latin 'extra' (outside, beyond) and 'terrestris' (belonging to the earth, from 'terra' meaning earth). The term emerged in the mid-19th century to describe phenomena or beings originating outside the limits of the Earth or its atmosphere.