cosmology
Other forms: cosmologies
Cosmology is the study of the cosmos, which is the entire universe. Someone who studies cosmology is interested in the structure, origins, and development of the universe.
In cosmology, the major theory of the origin of the universe is the Big Bang Theory, the idea that 12 to 14 billion years ago, a small amount of hot, dense matter began expanding, eventually cooling and forming the stars and galaxies we know today. Cosmos comes from the Greek word kosmos, which means world or universe, and cosmology comes from cosmos. Don't confuse cosmology with cosmetology, which is the study of beauty treatments.
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the metaphysical study of the origin and nature of the universetype of:metaphysicsthe philosophical study of being and knowing
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the branch of astrophysics that studies the origin and evolution and structure of the universetype of:astrophysicsthe branch of astronomy concerned with the physical and chemical properties of celestial bodies
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Vocabulary lists containing cosmology
The ancients believed that the universe was composed of five basic elements: earth, air, fire, water, and sky. The Greek and Latin words for these elements still show up in our language today. Learn these words that come from the Greek word kosmos (Latinized as cosmos), meaning "universe." Here are links to our complete set of Elements of the Universe lists: Cosm, Cosmo ("Universe") / Terr, Terra ("Earth") / Geo ("Earth") / Hydr, Hydro ("Water") / Aqua ("Water") / Ign, Igni ("Fire") / Pyr, Pyro ("Fire") / Aer, Aero ("Air") / Aether ("Sky") / Aster, Astro ("Star") / Sol ("Sun")
If you like science or science fiction, or hope to go into space one day, this list is essential vocabulary. Don't space out — learn these words!
No telescope? No problem! You can study astronomy any place, any time. Expand your knowledge of stars, planets, and galaxies with this list of words related to space science.