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

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

Word History

Etymology

Middle French, from New Latin perigeum, from Greek perigeion, from neuter of perigeios near the earth, from peri- + gē earth

First Known Use

1595, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

perigee

noun

peri·​gee ˈper-ə-jē 

: the point nearest a planet (as the earth) or other body (as a moon) reached by an object orbiting it compare apogee