galactic

[guh-lak-tik]

adjective

1. Astronomy.

   1. of or relating to a galaxy.

   2. of or relating to the Milky Way.

2. immense; huge; vast.

   a problem of galactic proportions.

3. Physiology.,  pertaining to or stimulating the secretion of milk.

galactic

/ ɡəˈlæktɪk /

adjective

1. astronomy of or relating to a galaxy, esp the Galaxy

   the galactic plane

2. med of or relating to milk

Other Word Forms

• nongalactic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of galactic¹

First recorded in 1830–40, galactic is from the Greek word galaktikós milky. See galact-, -ic

Word History and Origins

Origin of galactic¹

C19: from Greek galaktikos; see _galaxy

Example Sentences

Some researchers favored the star-rich, dust-heavy galaxy idea, while others argued that the little red dots were actually active galactic nuclei obscured by large amounts of dust.

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New work from astrophysicists at Michigan State University may help resolve a scientific question that has lingered for more than a century: where do galactic cosmic rays come from?

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Such models would allow researchers to compare theories of galactic evolution, structure, and star formation directly to observational data.

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Since its launch in 1999, it has explored galactic cores, studied stellar evolution, investigated regions around black holes, and observed bursts of intense radiation from distant stars and galaxies.

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But in a raucous World Series opener on Friday night in Toronto, the Blue Jays found their exhaust vent, and triggered an implosion of galactic proportions.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• astronomical 
• cosmic