universe

noun

uni·​verse ˈyü-nə-ˌvərs How to pronounce universe (audio)
1
: the whole body of things and phenomena observed or postulated : cosmos: such 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
(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
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 fromG. B. Clairmont

Examples of universe in a Sentence

How many stars are there in the universe? It means more to me than anything else in the entire universe. She is convinced that parallel universes exist. He creates his own universe in his novels. New York City is the center of the publishing universe.
Recent Examples on the Web But a whole generation of fans knows her specifically for her role as the tough but fair Professor Minerva McGonagall of the Harry Potter universe. Kate Hogan, People.com, 27 Sep. 2024 Ghost remains among the top shows for Black viewers in the United States, and worldwide, Starz says its subscribers have watched some 1.6 billion hours of the Power universe. Rick Porter, The Hollywood Reporter, 26 Sep. 2024 This delight at lifeforms at once so ancient, dainty and ephemeral colors the Mira Stella universe. Lily Templeton, WWD, 26 Sep. 2024 For the rest of the One Chicago universe, Chicago Med will air at 8 p.m. ET, while Chicago P.D. will conclude the night at 10 p.m. ET. Monica Mercuri, Forbes, 25 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for universe 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'universe.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

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

First Known Use

1589, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of universe was in 1589

Dictionary Entries Near universe

Cite this Entry

“Universe.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/universe. Accessed 4 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

universe

noun
uni·​verse ˈyü-nə-ˌvərs How to pronounce universe (audio)
1
: the whole body of things observed or assumed : cosmos
2
Etymology

from Latin universum "whole body of things that exist," from universus "whole, entire," literally, "turned into one," from uni- "one" and versus "turned toward," from vertere "to turn" — related to anniversary, converse, unicorn, versatile

More from Merriam-Webster on universe

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!