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cosmic ray
noun
: a stream of atomic nuclei of extremely penetrating character that enter the earth's atmosphere from outer space at speeds approaching that of light
Examples of cosmic ray in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Because of the observed asymmetry between matter and antimatter, most of these cosmic rays are made from matter, but some are formed of antimatter.
—Keith Cooper, Space.com, 25 Dec. 2024
Despite being underground to avoid interference from cosmic rays and radiation, the detector's sensitivity is unprecedented.
—Benedict Cosgrove, Newsweek, 18 Dec. 2024
Most electrons in cosmic rays have energies of a few hundred gigaelectronvolts (GeV).
—Michael Irving, New Atlas, 29 Nov. 2024
Researchers have known that at least hundreds of black hole jet systems exerted at least some influence on early the universe’s evolution through the emission of cosmic rays, heavy atoms, magnetic fields, and heat.
—Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 18 Sep. 2024
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Word History
First Known Use
1925, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near cosmic ray
Cite this Entry
“Cosmic ray.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cosmic%20ray. Accessed 18 Jan. 2025.
Kids Definition
cosmic ray
noun
: a stream of atomic nuclei of extremely penetrating character that enter the earth's atmosphere from outer space at speeds approaching that of light
More from Merriam-Webster on cosmic ray
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about cosmic ray
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