A theoretical orbital zone around a star that will result in an Earth-like planet existing in an orbit in the zone having a runaway greenhouse effect, similar to that found on Venus in our Solar System. The inner edge of the zone is where solar radiation is intense enough to strip the atmosphere of a planet away. The outer edge is where solar radiation is insufficient to power a runaway greenhouse.

(geology, often humorous, by analogy to erogenous zone) A region characterized by mountain-building.

(chiefly US, idiomatic, sports) To fill a relevant region of the field of play. / (idiomatic, by extension) To provide a very large quantity (of something).

(astronomy) The zone around a star where a planet could experience temperatures like those on Earth, allowing for the possible existence of liquid water and of life.

plural of zone plate

The area in which the baton must be passed from one runner to another during a relay race.

(hydrology) A portion of the lithosphere in which the functional interstices of permeable rock or earth are not filled by water under hydrostatic pressure.

(slang, transitive) To classify as a friend, without any possibility of a romantic relationship.

(slang) The situation in which one is viewed by a potential partner as a platonic friend, which complicates the initiation of a romantic relationship.

(military) The area of engagement where an attack on the enemy is focused and which has the highest percentage of fatalities. / A position where an individual is facing a deadly attack.