online vocabulary.com

Extraterrestrial - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

extraterrestrial

/ˌɛkstrətəˈrɛstriəl/ /ˌɛkstrətəˈrɛstriəl/

Definition:

Relating to or originating from outside Earth or its atmosphere.

Synonyms:

alien, otherworldly, cosmic, nonterrestrial

Part of Speech:

adjective, noun

Antonyms:

terrestrial, earthly

Common Collocations:

extraterrestrial life, extraterrestrial beings, extraterrestrial intelligence

Derivatives:

extraterrestrially, extraterrestrialism

Usage Tips:

Use "extraterrestrial" as an adjective for things beyond Earth or as a noun for hypothetical alien life forms.

Common Phrases:

close encounter of the third kind, little green men, UFO sightings

Etymology:

From Latin "extra" (outside) + "terrestris" (earthly), meaning beyond Earth.

Examples:

  • 1. Scientists search for extraterrestrial life in distant galaxies.
  • 2. The movie featured an extraterrestrial creature with glowing eyes.
  • 3. Many people believe in extraterrestrial visits to Earth.
  • 4. Extraterrestrial rocks sometimes land on our planet as meteorites.

MORE VOCABULARY LISTS