English Reference
adjective

cosmic

adj.
US /ˈkɑzmɪk/ UK /kˈɒzmɪk/ cos·mic

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate Science

    relating to the universe or the space outside of Earth.

    relating to the cosmos or the universe as a whole, especially as distinct from Earth.

    Simple

    Scientists are studying cosmic rays that travel through space at high speeds.

    In context

    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'.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Literary

    extremely large, important, or powerful.

    inconceivably great in size, intensity, or significance.

    Simple

    The failure of the project was a disaster of cosmic proportions.

    In context

    The author explores the cosmic irony of a hero who causes his own downfall while trying to prevent it.

    Teacher's tip

    This sense is often used figuratively to exaggerate the scale of a problem or event, frequently in the phrase 'of cosmic proportions'.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Academic Religion

    relating to spiritual or deep ideas about the meaning of the universe.

    relating to abstract spiritual or metaphysical concepts regarding the nature of existence.

    Simple

    The monk spoke about finding a sense of cosmic peace through meditation.

    In context

    The philosopher argued that humans possess a cosmic consciousness that connects them to all living things.

Usage cosmic rays · cosmic history · cosmic events

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.

The Guardian· 13 Aug 2026

Wouldn’t they want to end their cosmic loneliness as much as we do?

The Guardian· 11 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated