Edit page | Page history | Printable version

orbit

1. (Science: astronomy) The path described by a heavenly body in its periodical revolution around another body; as, the orbit of jupiter, of the earth, of the moon.

2. An orb or ball. Roll the lucid orbit of an eye. (young)

3. (Science: anatomy) The cavity or socket of the skull in which the eye and its appendages are situated.

4. (Science: zoology) The skin which surrounds the eye of a bird.

Origin: L. Orbita a track or rut made by a wheel, course, circuit, fr. Orbis a circle: cf. F. Orbite. See Orb.