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cosmology

noun cos·mol·o·gy \ käz-ˈmä-lə-jē \
|Updated on: 14 Jun 2018

Definition of cosmology

plural cosmologies
1 a : a branch of metaphysics that deals with the nature of the universe
b : a theory or doctrine describing the natural order of the universe
2 : a branch of astronomy that deals with the origin, structure, and space-time relationships of the universe; also : a theory dealing with these matters
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cosmological

play \ˌkäz-mə-ˈlä-ji-kəl\ adjective
—

cosmologically

play \ˌkäz-mə-ˈlä-ji-k(ə-)lē\ adverb
—

cosmologist

play \käz-ˈmä-lə-jist\ noun

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Recent Examples of cosmology from the Web

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'cosmology.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

cosmology and Star Trek

Most religions and cultures include some kind of cosmology to explain the nature of the universe. In modern astronomy, the leading cosmology is still the Big Bang theory, which claims that the universe began with a huge explosion that sent matter and energy spreading out in all directions. One reason why fans watch Star Trek is for the various cosmologies depicted in the show, including different conceptions of space, time, and the meaning of life.

Origin and Etymology of cosmology

New Latin cosmologia, from Greek kosmos — see cosmic + New Latin -logia -logy

Other Philosophy Terms

dialectic, dualism, epistemology, existentialism, metaphysics, ontology, sequitur, solipsism, transcendentalism

COSMOLOGY Defined for English Language Learners

cosmology

noun

Definition of cosmology for English Language Learners

  • : the scientific study of the origin and structure of the universe

Learn More about cosmology

  1. Nglish: Translation of cosmology for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of cosmology for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about cosmology

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