Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
orrery
noun
/ˈɔːrəri/
Definition
A mechanical model of the solar system that illustrates the positions and motions of the planets and moons in relation to the sun.
Examples
- The orrery showed the positions of the planets in real-time as they revolved around the sun.
- In the museum, visitors marveled at the antique orrery, which was intricately designed.
- Studying the orrery helped students understand the complex motions of the solar system.
Meaning
An orrery is used to demonstrate how celestial bodies move and relate to one another; it is often used for educational purposes in astronomy.
Synonyms
- Planetarium
- Celestial model
- Astronomical clock
