extraterrestrial
UK: ˌek.strə.təˈres.tri.əl | US: ˌek.strə.təˈres.tri.əl
adj. originating, existing, or occurring outside Earth or its atmosphere
n. a being or life form originating from outside Earth
extraterrestrial = extra<outside, beyond> + terrestrial<earthly>
- extra (from Latin extra, meaning "outside, beyond")
- terrestrial (from Latin terrestris, derived from terra, meaning "earth")
Etymology Origin:
The word combines Latin extra ("beyond") and terrestrial ("earthly"), reflecting the concept of existence or origin beyond Earth. Terrestrial itself stems from terra (Latin for "earth"), emphasizing the contrast between Earth and outer space. The term emerged in the early 19th century alongside scientific interest in celestial bodies and potential life beyond our planet.
Scientists search for extraterrestrial life using advanced telescopes.
The movie depicts an encounter with extraterrestrial beings.
Extraterrestrial rocks, like meteorites, provide clues about the universe.
Some believe UFOs are evidence of extraterrestrial visitors.
The study of extraterrestrial environments is called astrobiology.