perihelion

noun

peri·​he·​lion ˌper-ə-ˈhēl-yən How to pronounce perihelion (audio)
plural perihelia ˌper-ə-ˈhēl-yə How to pronounce perihelion (audio)
: the point nearest to the sun in the path of an orbiting celestial body (such as a planet) compare aphelion
perihelial adjective

Examples of perihelion in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Its last closest approach to the sun occurred in the same year it was discovered, and it is expected to reach its next perihelion around the year 2283. George Dvorsky / Gizmodo, Quartz, 16 Apr. 2024 In 2024, several comets will reach their perihelion and peak brightness. The Arizona Republic, 27 Mar. 2024 It's forecast to reach its perihelion on April 21 and its closest approach to Earth will occur on June 2. The Arizona Republic, 27 Mar. 2024 This is when the comet will reach its perihelion: the closest point to the sun on its orbital path. Claire Reid, Journal Sentinel, 19 Mar. 2024 See all Example Sentences for perihelion 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'perihelion.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from peri- + Greek hēlios sun — more at solar

First Known Use

1666, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of perihelion was in 1666

Dictionary Entries Near perihelion

Cite this Entry

“Perihelion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/perihelion. Accessed 15 Jul. 2024.

Kids Definition

perihelion

noun
peri·​he·​lion ˌper-ə-ˈhēl-yən How to pronounce perihelion (audio)
: the point in the path of a heavenly body (as a planet) that is nearest to the sun

More from Merriam-Webster on perihelion

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!