Main Entry:

uni·verse

Pronunciation:

\ˈyü-nə-ˌvərs\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

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

Date:

14th century

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 organization3: population 44: a set that contains all elements relevant to a particular discussion or problem5: a great number or quantity <a large enough universe of stocks…to choose from — G. B. Clairmont>