jupiter
jupiter — noun
1. the fifth planet from the Sun and the largest in our solar system, with at least
the fifth planet from the Sun and the largest in our solar system, with at least 95 known moons and a large storm called the Great Red Spot
Jupiter is the largest planet in our solar system, bigger than all other planets combined.
basic fact: superlative size comparison
The Hubble telescope captured new images of Jupiter's Great Red Spot last month.
astronomy context: space observation
Scientists believe that Jupiter's moon Europa may have a hidden ocean beneath its icy surface.
On clear nights, Jupiter shines brightly in the southern sky without a telescope.
visible to naked eye from Earth
NASA's Juno spacecraft has been orbiting Jupiter since 2016, studying its atmosphere and magnetic field.
Usage Note
Always capitalized when referring to the planet. The name comes from the Roman god Jupiter.
2. in Roman mythology, the supreme deity who ruled the heavens, controlled storms a
in Roman mythology, the supreme deity who ruled the heavens, controlled storms and lightning, and was worshipped as the protector of the Roman state, corresponding to the Greek Zeus
In Roman myth, Jupiter was the most powerful god and ruled over all other deities.
Ancient Romans built a temple to honor Jupiter on the Capitoline Hill.
historical context: temple construction
Jupiter's wife Juno was the goddess of marriage, and they protected the Roman state together.
Roman soldiers prayed to Jupiter for victory and strength before marching into battle.
worship context: military prayer
The eagle was Jupiter's sacred bird and a symbol of his power in Roman art.
Usage Note
Always capitalized. In Greek mythology, the equivalent figure is Zeus. Not used in the plural form. The planet Jupiter was named after this god.
3. a town on the Atlantic coast of southeastern Florida, United States, known for i
a town on the Atlantic coast of southeastern Florida, United States, known for its beaches and historic lighthouse
The Chen family spent their spring break in Jupiter, Florida, on the warm sandy beach.
travel context: vacation destination
Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse is one of the oldest surviving lighthouses on the Florida coast.
Moving to Jupiter let Rosa and her husband reach the beach and parks easily.
Every year, Jupiter hosts a popular art festival that draws visitors from across the state.
local event: annual art festival
Linh and Sana kayaked through the calm waters of Jupiter Inlet on Saturday morning.
Usage Note
Always capitalized. The town shares its name with the planet and the god. Speakers often say 'Jupiter, Florida' to avoid confusion. The population is approximately 55,000.