English Reference
noun

cosmos

n.
US /ˈkɑzmoʊs/ UK /kˈɒzmɒs/ cos·mos UK spelling cosmoses

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate Science

    the entire universe, especially when seen as a complex and orderly system.

    the universe regarded as a complex, orderly, and harmonious system. Often used in philosophical or scientific contexts to emphasize structure over randomness.

    Simple

    Ancient philosophers spent their lives trying to understand the laws of the cosmos.

    In context

    Modern astrophysics continues to probe the origins of the cosmos, seeking a unified theory that explains the behavior of both galaxies and subatomic particles.

    universemacrocosmcreation
  2. 02 C1 Advanced LiteraryFormal

    a state of perfect order and balance.

    a state of order, harmony, or completeness. This sense is often used abstractly to describe a system that functions perfectly.

    Simple

    The artist tried to bring a sense of cosmos to her messy studio.

    In context

    The architect's design was praised for imposing a sense of cosmos upon the previously neglected urban landscape.

  3. 03 C2 Proficiency Technical

    a tall garden plant with colorful, daisy-like flowers.

    any of various plants of the genus Cosmos, typically featuring feathery leaves and bright, radiate flower heads.

    Simple

    She planted pink and white cosmos along the garden fence.

    In context

    The gardener recommended cosmos for the border because they are drought-tolerant and provide vibrant color throughout the late summer months.

    Usage

    Usually refers to the garden variety Cosmos bipinnatus.

Roman is NASA's newest space telescope and is designed to give astronomers a much broader view of the cosmos.

ScienceDaily· 24 Aug 2026

Efan Dafydd's love of the cosmos continued to grow after meeting his hero, astronaut Tim Peake.

BBC News· 12 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated