adj
Uncommon
extraterrestrial
ehk-struh-tuh-REHS-tree-uhl
Extraterrestrial (adj) means originating from outside Earth, especially from another planet or outer space. Example: “The observatory searches for signs of extraterrestrial life.”
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.
"Smith returns in Men In Black 3 as a veteran agent of a secret organization dedicated to policing the earth’s many extraterrestrials."
— Nathan Rabin, Film: Reviews: Men In Black 3 (2012)
"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
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Word forms
- Plural
- extraterrestrials
- Comparative
- more extraterrestrial
- Superlative
- most extraterrestrial
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The observatory searches for signs of _____ life.
Etymology
Formed from extra- ("outside") + terrestrial ("of the Earth"), literally "beyond Earth."
Synonyms
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alien
extraterrestrial being
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for extraterrestrial
See all rhymes for extraterrestrial →Frequently asked questions
What does “extraterrestrial” mean?
The word “extraterrestrial” means originating from outside Earth, especially from another planet or outer space. In plain terms, relating to something (or someone) from beyond Earth — an alien or alien life.
How do you pronounce “extraterrestrial”?
“Extraterrestrial” is pronounced ehk-struh-tuh-REHS-tree-uhl (/ˌɛk.stɹə.təˈɹɛs.tɹi.əl/ in IPA).
How do you use “extraterrestrial” in a sentence?
Here is “extraterrestrial” used in a sentence: “The observatory searches for signs of extraterrestrial life.”
What is the opposite of “extraterrestrial”?
The opposite of “extraterrestrial” — its antonyms — are Earthling, Terran and terrestrial.
What part of speech is “extraterrestrial”?
Depending on how it is used, “extraterrestrial” can be an adjective and a noun.
Is “extraterrestrial” a common word?
“Extraterrestrial” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “extraterrestrial” have?
“Extraterrestrial” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: originating from outside Earth, especially from another planet or outer space.
