cosmology

[koz-mol-uh-jee]

noun

1. the branch of philosophy dealing with the origin and general structure of the universe, with its parts, elements, and laws, and especially with such of its characteristics as space, time, causality, and freedom.

2. the branch of astronomy that deals with the general structure and evolution of the universe.

cosmology

/ kɒzˈmɒlədʒɪ, ˌkɒzməˈlɒdʒɪkəl /

noun

1. the philosophical study of the origin and nature of the universe

2. the branch of astronomy concerned with the evolution and structure of the universe

3. a particular account of the origin or structure of the universe

   Ptolemaic cosmology

cosmology

1. The scientific study of the origin, evolution, and structure of the universe.

2. A specific theory or model of the origin and evolution of the universe.

cosmology

¹

1. The branch of science dealing with the large-scale structure, origins, and development of the universe. (See astronomy and Big Bang theory.)

cosmology

²

1. A system of beliefs that seeks to describe or explain the origin and structure of the universe. A cosmology attempts to establish an ordered, harmonious framework that integrates time, space, the planets, stars, and other celestial phenomena. In so-called primitive societies, cosmologies help explain the relationship of human beings to the rest of the universe and are therefore closely tied to religious beliefs and practices. In modern industrial societies, cosmologies seek to explain the universe through astronomy and mathematics. Metaphysics also plays a part in the formation of cosmologies. (See also under “Physical Sciences and Mathematics.”)

Other Word Forms

• cosmologer noun
• cosmologist noun
• cosmological adjective
• cosmologic adjective
• cosmologically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of cosmology¹

From the New Latin word cosmologia, dating back to 1650–60. See cosmo-, -logy

Example Sentences

A research team led by astrophysicist Lukas Böhme at Bielefeld University has now found new answers, ones that challenge the established standard model of cosmology.

Read more on Science Daily

This simple but powerful assumption has been the foundation of modern cosmology.

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Except that purgatory belongs to a cosmology fitted to human experience.

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According to a new study, its expansion could actually be slowing down, challenging one of modern cosmology's most fundamental ideas.

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Shajib specializes in observational cosmology and galaxy evolution, applying strong gravitational lensing to measure the Hubble constant and narrow down dark energy parameters.

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Related Words

• creation