Word
cosmic
Phoneticscos·mic, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈkɑzmɪk/
UK/kˈɒzmɪk/
Definitions
01space and the universe
B2 · Upper Intermediate Science
adj. relating to the universe or the space outside of Earth.
adj. relating to the cosmos or the universe as a whole, especially as distinct from Earth.
“Scientists are studying cosmic rays that travel through space at high speeds.”
“The telescope captured images of cosmic dust clouds where new stars are currently being formed millions of light-years away.”
Usage
Often used in scientific collocations like 'cosmic rays', 'cosmic dust', or 'cosmic microwave background'.
Synonyms
Antonyms
02vast or huge
C1 · Advanced Literary
adj. extremely large, important, or powerful.
adj. inconceivably great in size, intensity, or significance.
“The failure of the project was a disaster of cosmic proportions.”
“The author explores the cosmic irony of a hero who causes his own downfall while trying to prevent it.”
Teaching tip
This sense is often used figuratively to exaggerate the scale of a problem or event, frequently in the phrase 'of cosmic proportions'.
Antonyms
03spiritual or metaphysical
C1 · Advanced Religion Academic
adj. relating to spiritual or deep ideas about the meaning of the universe.
adj. relating to abstract spiritual or metaphysical concepts regarding the nature of existence.
“The monk spoke about finding a sense of cosmic peace through meditation.”
“The philosopher argued that humans possess a cosmic consciousness that connects them to all living things.”
Synonyms
Real-World Examples
“Science | Astronomers claim to have discovered a new kind of cosmic object , a black hole “star”, which is the size of the entire solar system and glows with a brilliant red light.” “Wouldn’t they want to end their cosmic loneliness as much as we do?” Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/cosmic