It has been suggested that this article or section be merged with Planets#Etymology. (Discuss)

"Wandering star" is an archaic (and therefore, poetic) term for planet, which is itself from Greek planasthai "to wander". This page refers only to the term, "wandering star", and its usage. For information about the object of the term, see planet. Wikipedia does not have an article with this exact name. ... A planet (from the Greek πλανήτης, planetes or wanderers) is a body of considerable mass that orbits a star and that produces very little or no energy through nuclear fusion. ... The eight planets and three dwarf planets of our solar system, alongside the Sun. ... The eight planets and three dwarf planets of our solar system, alongside the Sun. ...

Etymology

The word "planet" comes from the Greek word for "wanderer", because planets (in the same solar system as the observer) appear to wander against a background of stars that remain fixed relative to each other.

Historical usage

The movements of plainly visible "wandering stars" were examined by early astrologers as they appeared to wander through the twelve zodiac signs over the course of days or years. In addition to their astrological significance, some belief systems have also regarded "wandering stars" as stars which had betrayed their pre-ordained path.(1) Colourized version of the Flammarion woodcut, an enigmatic work by an unknown artist. ... Religion—sometimes used interchangeably with faith or belief system—is commonly defined as belief concerning the supernatural, sacred, or divine, and the moral codes, practices and institutions associated with such belief. ... It has been suggested that Biblical astronomy be merged into this article or section. ...

Metaphorical usage

Modern metaphorical usage

• The prepositional phrases "...on a wandering star" or "...from a wandering star" usually refer to the planet, Earth, but must be taken in context. Examples include:
  • "...lost on a wandering star" can refer to wandering aimlessly on multiple levels or aspects.
  • "...observations from a wandering star" can mean "from our perspective" while also ridiculing historical ignorance.
• "Wandering star" can be used as a fond reference to a person who gains or seeks fame through extensive travels or by rejecting behavioral conformity.