jupiter
UK: ˈdʒuːpɪtə | US: ˈdʒuːpɪtər
n. 1. (Roman mythology) The supreme god in Roman religion, equivalent to the Greek Zeus.
n. 2. (Astronomy) The fifth planet from the sun, the largest in the solar system.
The name "Jupiter" derives from the Latin Iuppiter (or Iūpiter), a contraction of Iovis pater ("father Jove"). "Jove" (from Iovis) refers to the sky god, while pater means "father," reflecting Jupiter's role as the king of the gods in Roman mythology. The word evolved from Proto-Indo-European roots: Dyēus (sky god) + ph₂tḗr (father), highlighting its ancient association with celestial authority. Over time, the name was adopted into astronomy to designate the largest planet, symbolizing grandeur and dominance.
In Roman myths, Jupiter wielded thunderbolts as symbols of his power.
Jupiter is often depicted with an eagle, his sacred animal.
The planet Jupiter has a famous storm called the Great Red Spot.
Ancient temples dedicated to Jupiter were built across the Roman Empire.
Astronomers study Jupiter's moons to understand planetary formation.