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Astronaut - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

An astronaut is a person trained to travel and work in space. They pilot spacecraft, conduct scientific experiments, and may live on space stations like the International Space Station.

astronaut

/ˈæstrəˌnɔt/ /ˈæstrəˌnɔːt/

Definition:

A person trained to travel and work in space.

Synonyms:

space traveler, cosmonaut, spacefarer

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

earthling, groundling

Common Collocations:

space mission, training program, launch vehicle

Derivatives:

astronautics, astronautical

Usage Tips:

Use "astronaut" for professionals; "cosmonaut" refers specifically to Russian space travelers.

Common Phrases:

astronaut training, astronaut corps, spacewalking astronaut

Etymology:

From Greek "astron" (star) and "nautes" (sailor), meaning "star sailor."

Examples:

  • 1. The astronaut boarded the spacecraft confidently.
  • 2. She dreams of becoming an astronaut one day.
  • 3. The astronaut conducted experiments in zero gravity.
  • 4. NASA selected him as an astronaut last year.

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