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

Now, speaking to The Telegraph, multiple stars have defended the "American Beauty" actor, arguing in favor of his reinstatement in Hollywood.

From Salon

In the Science Fiction Novella “Nightfall”, Isaac Asimov postulates how a civilization would face a solar eclipse in a multiple star solar system that only experienced night once every two thousand years.

From Salon

A noted streaky scorer, Burakovsky was used all over the lineup with Colorado and on the power play, but he operated behind multiple stars.

From Seattle Times

Wallen has already been warmly welcomed back by multiple stars of the genre, including Eric Church and Luke Bryan, who invited him onstage at their concerts.

From Washington Post

Using a powerful radio telescope, researchers have now identified multiple stars emitting the telltale activity.

From Scientific American