adj
extraterrestrial
ehk-struh-tuh-REHS-tree-uhl
adj
1
Originating from outside Earth, especially from another planet or outer space.
"The observatory searches for signs of extraterrestrial life."
noun
1
A being from outside Earth; an alien.
"The film follows a friendly extraterrestrial stranded on Earth."
How to Use Extraterrestrial
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishRelating to something (or someone) from beyond Earth — an alien or alien life.
Common pairings
extraterrestrial life
extraterrestrial intelligence
Word Forms
more extraterrestrial comparative, extraterrestrials plural, most extraterrestrial superlative
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The observatory searches for signs of _____ life.
Etymology
Formed from extra- ("outside") + terrestrial ("of the Earth"), literally "beyond Earth."