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Comet

UK //ˈkɒm.ɪt// US //ˈkɑː.mɪt// Pronunciation

Definition

A celestial object made of ice, dust, and gas that orbits the sun.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A comet is a space object made of ice and dust that moves around the sun.

Examples

• The comet lit up the sky with its bright tail.
• Scientists hope to learn more about comets by studying their composition.
• Halley's comet is one of the most famous comets in history.
• As the comet approached Earth, people gathered to watch its passage.
• The tail of a comet can stretch for millions of kilometers.

Usage notes

Used in informal conversations or scientific discussions. Not common in everyday speech outside astronomy.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'comet' as 'come and meet' because they appear from far away.

Collocations

• comet tail
• comet orbit
• famous comet

Synonyms

• celestial object
• meteor
• shooting star

Common mistakes

• Confusing comets with asteroids, which are made of rock, not ice.
• Mispronouncing the word 'comet' as 'com-it' instead of 'com-it'.