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orbit
The term evokes a sense of inevitable, repetitive motion and a powerful gravitational bond. It suggests a state of permanent capture where an object is locked into a cycle, unable to escape the pull of a larger mass. This creates a feeling of stability and predictability, but also of confinement.
In social or professional contexts, the word describes a sphere of influence or a circle of acquaintances. To enter someone's orbit implies moving into their zone of control or becoming part of their social world, often suggesting that the person is a dominant figure who attracts others toward them.
Countable when referring to a specific path or trajectory (the satellite has a wide orbit). Uncountable when referring to the general state of being in space (the craft is now in orbit).
Meanings
Examples
The moon follows a stable orbit around the Earth.
The satellite orbits the planet every ninety minutes.
The probe began to orbit the distant asteroid.
Phrasal Verbs
orbit around
to move in a curved path around a central object
The International Space Station orbits around the Earth every 90 minutes.