n. & v.
--n.
1. a the curved, usu. closed course of a planet, satellite, etc. b (prec. by in, into, out of, etc.) the state of motion in an orbit. c one complete passage around an orbited body.
2 the path of an electron round an atomic nucleus.
3 a range or sphere of action.
4 a the eye socket. b the area around the eye of a bird or insect.
--v. (orbited, orbiting)
1. intr. a (of a satellite etc.) go round in orbit. b fly in a circle.
2 tr. move in orbit round.
3 tr. put into orbit.
Derivatives:
orbiter n.
Etymology: L orbita course, track (in med.L eye-cavity): fem. of orbitus circular f. orbis ring