heavenly body

noun

plural heavenly bodies
: an aggregation of matter in the universe (such as a planet, star, or nebula) that can be considered as a single unit (as for astronomical study) : celestial body
Cooper's … account of the collection and interpretation of information about this heavenly body presents us with vivid images of the Venusian landscape as well as insights into the frustrations and rewards of space science. Donna Seaman
This harvest was the first solid sample of a heavenly body collected in more than 30 years and the first ever from a comet. Jeffrey Winters

Examples of heavenly body in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This celestial phenomenon is called a conjunction, which means two or more heavenly bodies appear very close to each other. John Meyer, The Denver Post, 29 Jan. 2025 When our earthly body dies, our new heavenly body is waiting for anyone who claims God’s grace. Rev. Randy Koppen, Twin Cities, 10 Mar. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of heavenly body was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Heavenly body.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/heavenly%20body. Accessed 31 Mar. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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