ScienceJune 30, 2026

cosmology

/kɒzˈmɒlədʒi/

Definition

The branch of astrophysics that deals with the origin, evolution, and large-scale structure of the universe as a whole.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek word 'kosmos' (meaning order or world) and the suffix '-logia' (meaning study of). It entered English in the 17th century to describe the scientific and philosophical study of the universe.

In the news

In this article, cosmology refers to the standard theoretical model used to explain the distribution of matter in the universe. The discovery of unexpectedly large structures challenges the current limitations set by this model.

Mammoth Structure Found in Deep Space Challenges Our Understanding of The Universe

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ScienceAlert

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