1
: an atmospheric phenomenon (such as lightning or a snowfall)
2
a
: any of the small particles of matter in the solar system that are directly observable only by their incandescence from frictional heating on entry into the atmosphere
b
: the streak of light produced by the passage of a meteor
Examples of meteor in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The meteors, or 'shooting stars', will appear as a streak in the sky, and on some occasions appear as a fireball or bright flash.
—
Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Apr. 2025
Known for its fast, bright meteors and occasional fireballs, the Lyrids are a welcome springtime treat for stargazers.
—Samantha Mathewson, Space.com, 16 Apr. 2025
Prior to receiving the all clear, NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope aimed its camera array towards the meteor for a closer inspection of its size, thermal properties, and other details.
—Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 3 Apr. 2025
The point in the sky where all meteors appear to stem from during a meteor shower is called the radiant point.
—Michael D'estries, Travel + Leisure, 17 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for meteor
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Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Apr. 2025
Known for its fast, bright meteors and occasional fireballs, the Lyrids are a welcome springtime treat for stargazers.
—Samantha Mathewson, Space.com, 16 Apr. 2025
Prior to receiving the all clear, NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope aimed its camera array towards the meteor for a closer inspection of its size, thermal properties, and other details.
—Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 3 Apr. 2025
The point in the sky where all meteors appear to stem from during a meteor shower is called the radiant point.
—Michael D'estries, Travel + Leisure, 17 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for meteor
Cite this Entry
“Meteor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/meteor. Accessed 1 May. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
meteor
noun
me·te·or
ˈmēt-ē-ər 
-ē-ˌȯ(ə)r
: one of the small bodies of matter in the solar system observable when it falls into the earth's atmosphere where the heat of friction may cause it to glow brightly for a short time
also
: the streak of light produced by the passage of a meteor
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