[kair-uh
n, kar-] 
| 1. | Classical Mythology. the ferryman who conveyed the souls of the dead across the Styx. |
| 2. | (usually used ironically) any ferryman. |
| 3. | Astronomy. the natural satellite of Pluto, discovered in 1978. |
[kuh-roh-nee-uhn] , Cha⋅ron⋅ic [kuh-ron-ik] , adjective In classical mythology, the boatman who carried the souls of the dead across the river Styx and into Hades, the underworld.
| Charon (kâr'ən) Pronunciation Key
The only known moon of Pluto. Charon is just over half Pluto's size and orbits it so closely that it was not discovered as a distinct body until 1978. Although Pluto is covered with methane ice, Charon appears to be covered with water ice. |