Definition

A large meteor that produces a bright light and often explodes in the atmosphere.

Example

The bolide lit up the night sky as it streaked across the horizon.

Conversation

Did you see that bolide that lit up the sky last night?

Yeah, it was incredible! I thought it was going to crash into the ground.

I read that a bolide can actually explode in the atmosphere before hitting Earth.

That's wild! I hope we get to see another one soon.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bolide comes from the Latin word 'bolis' (meaning missile or projectile), which is derived from the Greek 'bōlos' (meaning a ball or lump). The term refers to a large meteor or fireball that enters the Earth's atmosphere.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'missile' or 'projectile' ('bolis') that travels through the sky, which helps you remember that a bolide is a large meteor.

Visually Confused Words