cosmic
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /kˈɒzmɪk/
US
- /ˈkɑzmɪk/
Description
- space-related
- universe-wide
- extremely large
- deeply important
- otherworldly
When we say something is cosmic, we're talking about things connected to the entire universe—everything beyond our planet! Think of twinkling stars, swirling galaxies, and the sheer scale of space. It evokes a sense of wonder and immensity. You might describe a beautiful night sky as "cosmic," or a profound feeling as having "cosmic significance."
The word comes from the Greek kosmos, meaning order or universe. While it often refers to outer space, it can also be used figuratively to describe something overwhelmingly powerful or important—like a cosmic shift in your perspective after a life-changing event. A band might even call their music "cosmic funk" if it's meant to sound otherworldly and expansive!
The word cosmic refers to the universe, encompassing everything that exists—from the smallest particles to the largest galaxies. It's often used to describe things related to outer space, like cosmic radiation, cosmic dust, or a cosmic event such as a supernova. You might hear sentences like, "Astronomers study cosmic phenomena," meaning they study these grand events.
However, cosmic isn't limited to scientific contexts. It also carries a sense of vastness, grandeur, and awe-inspiring scale. You might describe a breathtaking view as having "cosmic beauty," or a feeling of connection to something larger than yourself as a "cosmic awareness."
Figuratively, cosmic can mean incredibly significant or impactful. For instance, "The discovery had cosmic implications for the future of space travel." It suggests something that transcends everyday concerns and touches upon fundamental truths about existence. Think of Carl Sagan's famous quote, "We are made of star stuff"—a beautifully cosmic reminder of our connection to the universe.
Historically, the term was linked to philosophical ideas about order and harmony in the universe. Today, it keeps that sense of deep meaning while also being used more casually to describe anything that feels expansive, mysterious, or otherworldly. So, whether you're gazing at the stars or contemplating your place in the grand scheme of things, cosmic is a word that speaks to the infinite and the sublime.
Examples
- 1
Astronomy
Scientists believe cosmic dust helped form the planets.
- 2
Big-picture comparison
On a cosmic scale, our everyday problems seem very small.
Phrase
on a cosmic scale
when compared with the whole universe
- 3
Film and fate
The director turns a simple love story into a cosmic drama about fate.
- 4
Personal meaning
She spoke about the trip as if it had some cosmic significance in her life.
- 5
Absurd bad luck
When the power went out right before my presentation, it felt like a cosmic joke.
Phrase
a cosmic joke
something that feels absurdly unfair, as if the universe planned it
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- cosmicadjective