multiple star

noun

, Astronomy.

1. three or more stars lying close together in the celestial sphere and usually united in a single gravitational system.

multiple star

noun

1. a system of three or more stars associated by gravitation See also binary star

multiple star

1. A system of three or more stars that are bound together by gravity and orbit a common center of mass. The group generally appears as a single star to the naked eye. Astronomers believe that most stars in the universe are part of multiple or binary systems. Alpha Centauri, the closest star to our Sun, is a multiple star system containing three bodies.
2. See also binary star

Word History and Origins

Origin of multiple star¹

First recorded in 1840–50

Example Sentences

No matter how great your franchise player, it’s essential for championship teams to have multiple stars and role players maximizing their influence on the game as well.

From Washington Post

Theoretical studies had suggested disk tearing might happen in multiple star systems, but this is the first time it’s been seen in real life, Kraus contends.

From Science News

When several stars appear in close proximity to each other, they are spoken of, collectively, as a multiple star.

From Project Gutenberg

An actual multiple star in the constellation Polaris will serve as an example.

From Project Gutenberg

It is well seen, however, as a fine multiple star with a smaller aperture.

From Project Gutenberg

So θ Orionis, or the Trapezium of Orion, is a multiple star, probably lying in the midst of the nebula.

From Project Gutenberg