pluto: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1neutral to formal in astronomical context; informal, often humorous or metaphorical for the verb.
Quick answer
What does “pluto” mean?
The dwarf planet in our solar system, formerly classified as the ninth planet.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The dwarf planet in our solar system, formerly classified as the ninth planet.
To demote or reduce in status or importance (verb). Used to describe something that becomes much less significant or visible.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning. The verb form is slightly more documented in American media due to the 'American Dialect Society' naming it 'Word of the Year' in 2007.
Connotations
The verb carries a humorous, slightly irreverent connotation in both varieties, referencing a controversial scientific decision.
Frequency
The noun (referring to the planet) is low-frequency in general discourse. The verb is very low-frequency and niche.
Grammar
How to Use “pluto” in a Sentence
[proper noun] Plutoto pluto [object] (verb)get plutoed (passive verb)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “pluto” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The old policy was effectively plutoed by the new legislation.
- They're worried their department will get plutoed in the restructuring.
American English
- That idea got plutoed in the final budget meeting.
- He felt plutoed when his role was made redundant.
adverb
British English
- The proposal failed plutoly, with little discussion.
American English
- The initiative was treated plutoly by the board.
adjective
British English
- It was a Pluto-like fate for the once-celebrated programme.
- He had a Pluto moment in his career.
American English
- The team's Pluto status was clear after the reorganization.
- It's a Pluto situation for that outdated technology.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Metaphorically: 'The project was plutoed after the merger.'
Academic
In astronomy and planetary science: 'New Horizons provided detailed data on Pluto.'
Everyday
Referring to the dwarf planet or jokingly about demotion: 'I felt a bit plutoed when they gave the job to someone else.'
Technical
Astronomical context: 'Pluto's classification sparked debate in the IAU.'
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “pluto”
Neutral
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “pluto”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “pluto”
- Using 'Pluto' as a common noun without capitalisation (incorrect: *'a pluto').
- Overusing the verb form in formal writing.
- Misspelling as 'Pluto's' for the possessive when referring to attributes (correct: 'Pluto's atmosphere').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, since 2006 the International Astronomical Union (IAU) classifies Pluto as a 'dwarf planet'.
It is not recommended. The verb is an informal neologism best used in conversational or humorous contexts.
The final vowel: British English uses /əʊ/ (like 'go'), American English uses /oʊ/ (a similar but often slightly different diphthong).
The only established idiom is the informal passive construction 'to be plutoed', meaning to be demoted or made insignificant.
The dwarf planet in our solar system, formerly classified as the ninth planet.
Pluto: in British English it is pronounced /ˈpluː.təʊ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈpluː.toʊ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “be plutoed (informal: to be demoted or rendered insignificant)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Pluto is 'PLUgged Out' of the planet club.
Conceptual Metaphor
DEMOTION IS BEING PLUTOED; INSIGNIFICANCE IS DISTANCE (faraway like Pluto).
Practice
Quiz
What is the origin of the verb 'to pluto'?