cosmic
adj.-
1 space and the universe (adj.) B2 Upper Intermediate Sciencerelating to the universe or the space outside of Earth.
relating to the cosmos or the universe as a whole, especially as distinct from Earth.
ExampleScientists are studying cosmic rays that travel through space at high speeds.
ExampleThe telescope captured images of cosmic dust clouds where new stars are currently being formed millions of light-years away.
UsageOften used in scientific collocations like 'cosmic rays', 'cosmic dust', or 'cosmic microwave background'.
-
2 vast or huge (adj.) C1 Advanced Literaryextremely large, important, or powerful.
inconceivably great in size, intensity, or significance.
ExampleThe failure of the project was a disaster of cosmic proportions.
ExampleThe author explores the cosmic irony of a hero who causes his own downfall while trying to prevent it.
Teacher's tipThis sense is often used figuratively to exaggerate the scale of a problem or event, frequently in the phrase 'of cosmic proportions'.
Show 1 more senseShow fewer
-
3 spiritual or metaphysical (adj.) C1 Advanced Academic Religionrelating to spiritual or deep ideas about the meaning of the universe.
relating to abstract spiritual or metaphysical concepts regarding the nature of existence.
ExampleThe monk spoke about finding a sense of cosmic peace through meditation.
ExampleThe philosopher argued that humans possess a cosmic consciousness that connects them to all living things.