Astronomy
WordNet
noun
(1) The branch of physics that studies celestial bodies and the universe as a whole
WiktionaryText
Etymology
First coined 1570, from < < < + , related to .
Noun
- The study of the physical universe beyond the Earth's atmosphere, including the process of mapping locations and properties of the matter and radiation in the universe.
Usage notes
The study of the physical processes which control matter and energy in the universe is commonly called astrophysics. The investigation of the origin, evolution, and fate of the universe itself is called cosmology.
Related terms
- astral
- astrologist
- astrology
- astronomer
- astronomical
- astronomically
- astrometry
- astrophysics