Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

protostar

noun

/ˈprəʊtəˌstɑːr/

Definition

A protostar is a very young star that is still in the process of forming from a collapsing cloud of gas and dust.

Examples

A protostar typically emits energy in the form of infrared radiation.
As the protostar gathers more material, it begins to grow and heat up.
The study of protostars helps astronomers understand how stars like our Sun formed.

Meaning

The term ‘protostar’ refers to the early stage of star formation where the object has not yet reached the necessary conditions for nuclear fusion, which is essential for it to be considered a true star.