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

Example Sentences

The hallmark of the “Khongian” multiverse, according to her agent, Marya Spence, are the boundless souls contained within her characters’ ordinary bodies.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 13, 2026

He said it was his unique position, with a foot within each world, that enabled him to bring the "Marvel" style multiverse to life - with a plotline inspired by his commute.

From BBC • Jan. 5, 2026

Scrolling through the Sora app can feel a bit like entering a real-life multiverse.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 26, 2025

"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