perigee

noun

peri·gee ˈper-ə-(ˌ)jē

: the point in the orbit of an object (such as a satellite) orbiting the earth that is nearest to the center of the earth

also : the point nearest a planet or a satellite (such as the moon) reached by an object orbiting it compare apogee

perigean

ˌper-ə-ˈjē-ən

adjective

Examples of perigee in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

These two events — perigee and opposition — typically occur a few days apart based on the orbits of the two planets. —

Samantha Mathewson, Space.com, 10 Jan. 2025 Mars will reach perigee — its closest point to Earth — a few days earlier, on Jan. 12. 4. —

Jamie Carter, Space.com, 29 Dec. 2024 How many supermoons in 2025? Supermoons occur when a full moon coincides with the moon's closest approach to Earth in its elliptical orbit, known as perigee. —

Tiffany Acosta, The Arizona Republic, 8 Apr. 2024 This happens when the full moon falls at perigee – its closest point to Earth in its orbit. —

Alexis Simmerman, Austin American-Statesman, 14 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for perigee