plural cosmologies
1
a
: a branch of metaphysics that deals with the nature of the universe
b
: a theory or doctrine describing the natural order of the universe
2
: a branch of astronomy that deals with the origin, structure, and space-time relationships of the universe
also : a theory dealing with these matters

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Cosmology and Star Trek

Most religions and cultures include some kind of cosmology to explain the nature of the universe. In modern astronomy, the leading cosmology is still the Big Bang theory, which claims that the universe began with a huge explosion that sent matter and energy spreading out in all directions. One reason why fans watch Star Trek is for the various cosmologies depicted in the show, including different conceptions of space, time, and the meaning of life.

Examples of cosmology in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
According to certain cosmologies, their souls take on the guise of marine creatures—an idea that struck me as strangely comforting. Julian Lucas, The New Yorker, 24 Feb. 2025 Yet these voids’ very existence can also tell us quite a bit about cosmology. Bruce Dorminey, Forbes, 23 Feb. 2025 But important questions remain and understanding this enigmatic phenomenon has since been a central challenge for modern cosmology. The Physics Arxiv Blog, Discover Magazine, 31 Dec. 2024 This is a question about the cosmology of Tolkien’s universe and the show. James Hibberd, The Hollywood Reporter, 30 Aug. 2024 See All Example Sentences for cosmology

Word History

Etymology

New Latin cosmologia, from Greek kosmos — see cosmic + New Latin -logia -logy

First Known Use

circa 1656, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of cosmology was circa 1656

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Cite this Entry

“Cosmology.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cosmology. Accessed 23 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

cosmology

noun
plural cosmologies
: a branch of astronomy that deals with the beginning, structure, and space-time relationships of the universe

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