Elliptical galaxy, also known as spheroidal galaxy, is a type of galaxy that appears as a spherical or ellipsoid shape. This type of galaxy is characterized by its lack of spiral arms, young stars, and interstellar gas and dust. Some synonyms for elliptical galaxy include lenticular galaxy, which is an intermediate between elliptical and spiral galaxies, dwarf elliptical galaxy, which is a small version of an elliptical galaxy, and giant elliptical galaxy, which is a massive version of an elliptical galaxy. Other terms that can be used to refer to elliptical galaxies include non-barred galaxies and type E galaxies.