infinity
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /ɪnfˈɪnɪti/
US
- /ˌɪnˈfɪnɪti/
Description
- endless
- limitless
- without bound
Infinity isn't just a really, really big number. It's the idea of something that goes on forever, with no limit. Think about counting: you can keep going and going, never reaching an end. That's the basic idea. It shows up in math (the symbol is ∞), but also in ideas like endless love or the vastness of space. You might say a song has "infinite replay value" if you could listen to it forever without getting tired.
Infinity is a concept representing something that is limitless, endless, or boundless. It is not an ordinary number, but an idea used in mathematics, philosophy, and even everyday language to describe things that have no end. Imagine looking up at the night sky: the universe seems to stretch on forever, hinting at infinity.
In mathematics, infinity (represented by the symbol ∞) is used to denote quantities larger than any real number. It's crucial for understanding concepts like limits and calculus. For example, a line extends infinitely in both directions.
But infinity isn't confined to numbers. We use it metaphorically too. A love that feels "infinite" suggests an enduring, unwavering connection. A repeating pattern can be described as having "infinite iterations." The idea of infinite possibilities captures the boundless potential within life.
Philosophers have debated the nature of infinity for centuries—is it a real thing, or just a concept our minds create? Physicists explore whether the universe itself is finite or infinite in size and duration.
From the smallest atom to the largest galaxy, the idea of infinity challenges us to think beyond limits and think about the truly boundless parts of existence. So when you gaze at the stars, remember that you may be looking at something truly infinite.
Examples
- 1
Math concept
In math, a line can extend toward infinity in both directions.
- 2
Abstract idea
The idea of infinity is hard to picture.
- 3
Landscape view
From the plane window, the desert seemed to stretch into infinity.
Phrase
stretch into infinity
seem to continue with no end
- 4
Calculus
As x approaches infinity, the curve gets closer to zero.
Pattern
as x approaches infinity
as x becomes larger and larger
- 5
Film theme
The film turns a simple story into a meditation on time, death, and infinity.
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- infinitynoun
Forms
- infinitiespluralnoun