Magellanic cloud

noun Astronomy.

either of two irregular galactic clusters in the southern heavens that are the nearest independent star system to the Milky Way.

Origin of Magellanic cloud

First recorded in 1675–85

British Dictionary definitions for magellanic clouds

Magellanic Cloud

/ (ˌmæɡɪˈlænɪk) /

noun

either of two small irregular galaxies, the Large Magellanic Cloud (Nubecula Major) and the Small Magellanic Cloud (Nubecula Minor), lying near the S celestial pole; they are probably satellites of the Galaxy. Distances: 163 000 light years (Large), 196 000 light years (Small)

Scientific definitions for magellanic clouds

Magellanic Clouds

[ măj′ə-lăn′ĭk ]

Two small, irregular dwarf galaxies that orbit the Milky Way. They are among the galaxies closest to the Milky Way and are faintly visible near the south celestial pole. See also irregular galaxy.