The curved paths followed by celestial bodies around other bodies due to gravitational attraction. Also refers to eye sockets or spheres of influence.
From Latin 'orbita' meaning wheel track or rut, from 'orbis' (circle or wheel). The astronomical meaning developed as understanding of planetary motion advanced in the Renaissance.
Johannes Kepler revolutionized astronomy by proving orbits are elliptical, not circular - a discovery that shattered the ancient belief in perfect celestial circles. Every orbit represents a perfect balance between an object's forward motion and gravitational pull, like cosmic dance partners.
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