Extraterrestrial
/ˌɛkstrətəˈrɛstriəl/noun
Relating to or originating from outside the Earth or its atmosphere.
Did you know?The term 'extraterrestrial' was first popularized in the 19th century, coinciding with humanity's growing fascination with the cosmos and the possibility of alien life.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
terra
“land or earth”
Medieval Latin
Medieval Latin
extraterrestialis
“from beyond the earth”
17th Century
English
extraterrestrial
“pertaining to beings from outside the Earth”
20th Century
English
extraterrestrial
“popularized in science fiction as a term for alien life forms”