# astronomical

/ˌæstɹəˈnɑmɪkəɫ/ (US) · /ɐstɹənˈɒmɪkəl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/astronomical
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. related to space science

adjective · CEFR B2 · Technical

relating to the scientific study of stars, planets, and space.

For teachers: relating to the science of astronomy or the observation of celestial objects.

- The observatory uses astronomical tools to track the movement of distant stars.
- The researchers published their findings in an astronomical journal, detailing the precise coordinates of the newly discovered exoplanet.

### 2. extremely large

adjective · CEFR B2

incredibly large or expensive — much bigger than what is normal.

For teachers: extremely large in number, size, or degree; often used to describe costs or distances.

- The cost of repairing the old house was astronomical, so they decided to sell it instead.
- The national debt has reached astronomical levels, prompting urgent discussions among economists regarding long-term fiscal stability.

Usage: Often used to describe prices, debts, or distances.

## Examples

- The repair costs were astronomical.
- The company faced astronomical debts after the market crash.
- The astronomical distances between stars make direct travel impossible with current technology.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.