spiral galaxy

noun

: a galaxy exhibiting a central nucleus or barred structure from which extend curved arms of higher luminosity

called also spiral nebula

Examples of spiral galaxy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The Milky Way is a spiral galaxy, and our solar system lies on its outer fringes. Stephanie Vermillion, Outside Online, 3 July 2025 Blue and red stars shine brightly, while nearby blue spiral galaxies and distant red galaxy groups can also be seen. Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 25 June 2025 Visible in one image are two prominent spiral galaxies and countless distant stars. Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 25 June 2025 In the image release, one of the photographs shared with the public was this picture of the Virgo cluster, revealing two bright spiral galaxies and three merging galaxies, along with many stars. Kenna Hughes-Castleberry, Space.com, 24 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for spiral galaxy

Word History

First Known Use

1913, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of spiral galaxy was in 1913

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Cite this Entry

“Spiral galaxy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spiral%20galaxy. Accessed 13 Jul. 2025.

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