terrestrial planet

[ tuh-res-tree-uhl plan-it ]

noun

, Astronomy.

1. a planet composed mostly of metals or silica rocks: in our solar system, the terrestrial planets are the four inner planets.

terrestrial planet

1. See inner planet

Word History and Origins

Origin of terrestrial planet¹

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

“This is a terrestrial planet that I would describe as Io on steroids,” Kane said in a statement about TOI-6713.01.

From Salon

"This is a terrestrial planet that I would describe as Io on steroids," Kane said.

From Science Daily

"This teaches us a lot about the extremes of how much energy can be pumped into a terrestrial planet, and the consequences of that," Kane said.

From Science Daily

A terrestrial planet's interior also influences its atmosphere.

From Science Daily

The researchers propose that if a terrestrial planet has substantially less carbon dioxide in its atmosphere compared to other planets in the same system, it could be a sign of liquid water -- and possibly life -- on that planet's surface.

From Science Daily