multiverse

American  

[muhl-ti-vurs] / ˈmʌl tɪˌvɜrs /

noun

1. Physics. (in cosmology) a hypothetical collection of identical or diverse universes, including our own.

   It is impossible to know how many universes could exist in the multiverse.

2. a collection of linked fictional settings composed of multiple alternate dimensions, different timelines, etc..

   The video game is overall a more accurate representation of the franchise's multiverse than its card counterpart.

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multiverse British  

/ ˈmʌltɪˌvɜːs /

noun

1. astronomy the aggregate of all existing matter, of which the universe is but a tiny fragment

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multiverse Scientific  

/ mŭl′tə-vûrs′ /

1. The collection of parallel universes that comprise all of reality in some quantum mechanical and cosmological theories.

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Etymology

Origin of multiverse

Coined by William James in 1895 in the sense “the universe imagined as lacking order, unity, or a single ruling and guiding power”; multi- + (uni)verse

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Explanation

The term multiverse is used in both physics and fiction: It refers to a theoretical collection of universes that may exist alongside our own, though we cannot experience the other universes directly. While the actual existence of a multiverse hasn't been proven, it remains an intriguing idea that suggests that our universe might be just one small bubble in a much larger reality. The term swaps the uni- prefix (meaning "one") of the word universe with multi- (meaning "many"). The concept of a multiverse is not limited to theoretical physics. It's also a storytelling device used in video games, movies, and books to explore alternate "what if" scenarios.

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

multiverse

Much has changed in the Marvel Cinematic Universe since then, but I’m ready to dive back into this corner of the multiverse occupied by “WandaVision,” “Agatha All Along” and the upcoming “VisionQuest.”

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 1, 2026

Many critics have welcomed the film-makers' decision to scale back from the multiverse seen in No Way Home, in favour of a more personal, character-centred story.

From BBC ● Aug. 1, 2026

While it’s still a sitcom, the show embraces sci-fi and elevates a quartet of supporting characters from “The Big Bang Theory” for a crazy multiverse ride with callbacks to the original series.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 13, 2026

"What is this multiverse," said one comment which was liked by more than 17,000 people.

From BBC ● Oct. 24, 2025

According to the theory of inflationary cosmology, empty space can spawn other big bangs, creating a vast number of other universes: a multiverse.

From "The Sense of Style" by Steven Pinker

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