Word
orbiting
Phoneticsor·bit·ing
US/ˈɔɹbətɪŋ/
UK/ˈɔːbɪtɪŋ/
Definitions
01moving around a planet
v. moving in a curved path around a planet, star, or moon.
v. moving in an elliptical or circular path around a celestial body or point of mass.
“The satellite is currently orbiting the Earth to collect weather data.”
“The spacecraft spent three years orbiting the gas giant, capturing high-resolution imagery of its turbulent atmosphere and rings.”
Usage
Usually functions as the present participle or gerund of the verb 'orbit'.
02social media behavior
n. staying connected to an ex-partner on social media by watching their stories or liking posts without actually talking to them.
n. The practice of maintaining a passive digital presence in a former partner's life by interacting with their social media content after direct communication has ceased.
“I realized he was orbiting when he liked my photo even though we haven't spoken in months.”
“Psychologists suggest that orbiting can be more distressing than ghosting, as the constant digital reminders prevent individuals from achieving emotional closure.”
Slang · Informal
Teaching tip
This is a modern neologism; learners should use it only in casual contexts regarding dating and social media.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Real-World Examples
“As of 2025, some 6,000 exoplanets have been identified in the Milky Way, including at least three orbiting Proxima Centauri, the closest star to the sun.” “In 1969, while Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin made history taking the first steps on the lunar surface, Collins was alone in the command module, orbiting the Moon.” Domain
Scan code
englishreference.com/q/orbiting