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cosmic

adj.
US //ˈkɑzmɪk// UK //kˈɒzmɪk// cos·mic
  1. 1 space and the universe (adj.)
    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.

    Example

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

    Example

    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. 2 vast or huge (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Literary

    extremely large, important, or powerful.

    inconceivably great in size, intensity, or significance.

    Example

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

    Example

    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'.

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  1. 3 spiritual or metaphysical (adj.)
    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.

    Example

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

    Example

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

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