Definition

Relating to a flight path that does not complete a full orbit around a planet or celestial body, typically used for rockets or spacecraft that travel just below the edge of space.

Example

The suborbital flight provided valuable data for future space missions.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new suborbital flights they’re planning?

Yeah, I read about them! It sounds really exciting.

I wonder how long it will take to get used to suborbital travel.

Probably not long! It could change how we think about space.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A part that is located below or beneath an orbit, often referring to structures in the body like bones or nerves.

Example

The surgeon examined the suborbital area for any signs of injury.

Conversation

I read something interesting about a suborbital flight yesterday.

Oh really? What did it say?

It mentioned how suborbital travel is becoming more common for space tourism.

Root Explanation

Suborbital → It is formed from "sub-" (meaning under or below) and "orbital" (from Latin "orbita", meaning path or track). The word "suborbital" refers to a trajectory that is below the path of an orbit.

Memory Tip

Think of something that goes 'under' ('sub-') the 'path' ('orbita') of an orbit — that's what suborbital means.

Visually Confused Words