WorldJuly 14, 2026

microcosm

/ˈmaɪkrəˌkɒzəm/

Definition

A smaller system or group that exhibits the same qualities, characteristics, or dynamics as a much larger entity.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek words 'mikros' (small) and 'kosmos' (world or order). It entered English via Late Latin to describe the belief that the human body was a miniature version of the universe.

In the news

The author uses this term to describe the security coordination room, where the intense, collaborative, and competitive atmosphere among global officials mirrors the nature of the World Cup tournament itself.

Trump could learn from the World Cup’s International Police Co-operation Center

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Monocle

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