cosmic ray

noun

: a stream of atomic nuclei of extremely penetrating character that enter the earth's atmosphere from outer space at speeds approaching that of light

Examples of cosmic ray in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For nearly 50 years, the instrument has provided constant measurements on the ion, electron and cosmic ray environment in deep space. — Tariq Malik, Space.com, 5 Sep. 2026

This world’s heavens are lit with cosmic rays, its cityscapes otherworldly — everything seems to service an unabashed romanticism. — Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 4 Sep. 2026

The thick layer of rock shields it from cosmic rays, while a water tank and outer detectors help block or identify other particles that could mimic a dark matter signal. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 1 Sep. 2026

The impact excavated pristine materials from below the lunar surface that have escaped weathering from the solar wind, galactic cosmic rays, and micrometeorites. — Stephen Clark, ArsTechnica, 21 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1925, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for cosmic ray

• aaa
• alleyway
• alumnae
• anime
• anyway
• arete
• attache
• axillae
• baa
• beaujolais
• bouvier
• breakaway

Kids Definition

cosmic ray

noun

: a stream of atomic nuclei of extremely penetrating character that enter the earth's atmosphere from outer space at speeds approaching that of light