universe

uni·verse

noun \ˈyü-nə-ˌvərs\

Definition of UNIVERSE

1

: the whole body of things and phenomena observed or postulated : cosmos: as

a : a systematic whole held to arise by and persist through the direct intervention of divine power

b : the world of human experience

c (1) : the entire celestial cosmos (2) : milky way galaxy (3) : an aggregate of stars comparable to the Milky Way galaxy

2

: a distinct field or province of thought or reality that forms a closed system or self-inclusive and independent organization

3

: population 4

4

: a set that contains all elements relevant to a particular discussion or problem

5

: a great number or quantity <a large enough universe of stocks … to choose from — G. B. Clairmont>

Examples of UNIVERSE

1. How many stars are there in the universe?
2. It means more to me than anything else in the entire universe.
3. She is convinced that parallel universes exist.
4. He creates his own universe in his novels.
5. New York City is the center of the publishing universe.

Origin of UNIVERSE

Middle English, from Latin universum, from neuter of universus entire, whole, from uni- + versus turned toward, from past participle of vertere to turn — more at worth

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to UNIVERSE

Synonyms

cosmos, creation, macrocosm, nature, world

Related Words

existence, reality

Near Antonyms

nothingness, void

Other Astronomy Terms

gibbous, nadir, nebulous, penumbra, retrograde, sidereal, syzygy, wane, wax, zenith

Rhymes with UNIVERSE

e-commerce, in reverse, intersperse, nonsense verse, privy purse, reimburse, shepherd's purse

universe

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Whole cosmic system of matter and energy of which Earth is a part. Its main constituents are the galaxies, within which are stars and stellar groupings and nebulae (see nebula). Earth's Sun is one star among the billions of stars in the Milky Way Galaxy. All atoms, subatomic particles, and everything they compose are also part of the universe. The universe is governed by four fundamental forces: the strong force, the weak force, the electromagnetic force, and gravitation. Numerous theories have been proposed for the origin and structure of the universe. See also big bang; cosmology; expanding universe; steady-state theory.