English Reference

Word

SOL

Phoneticssol

/ˈsɑɫ/

Uncountable noun

Definition

n. the name for the Sun in science and stories. You use it when talking about our solar system or in space movies.

n. the Sun, specifically when viewed as a central star within a planetary system. Often used in astronomical contexts or science fiction to distinguish the local star from others.

Examples

“The planet orbits Sol once every year.”

“In many science fiction novels, humans refer to their home star as Sol to differentiate it from Alpha Centauri.”

“While the term is less common in casual conversation, astronomers occasionally use Sol to specify the Sun as the gravitational anchor of our particular solar system.”

Examples

simple

“The planet orbits Sol once every year.”

contextual

“In many science fiction novels, humans refer to their home star as Sol to differentiate it from Alpha Centauri.”

complex

“While the term is less common in casual conversation, astronomers occasionally use Sol to specify the Sun as the gravitational anchor of our particular solar system.”

Usage

Typically used as a proper noun and capitalized, though it does not always require a definite article.

Word family

NOUN

Related words

Domain

Astronomy

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C2 ProficiencyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.8.5–9.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 6.0114–120
Frequency
Frequent
Level
C2 · Proficiency
Updated

QR code

englishreference.com/q/sol

English Reference