Kuiper belt

/ˈkaɪ.pə(ɹ).bɛlt/

KAꞮ · pə(ɹ) · bɛlt (3 syllables)

English Noun

Definition

A type of asteroid belt, expected to exist in the outer regions of planetary systems, that forms an annular belt or disc around the system's center, lies beyond the region of major-planet formation, and at its outer extent may reach the inner region of an Oort cloud.

Etymology

Named after the Dutch astronomer Gerard Kuiper (1905–1973), who conjectured the existence of a version of the belt in 1951.