English Reference
noun · verb

globe

n. · v.
US /ˈɡɫoʊb/ UK /ɡlˈəʊb/ globe UK spelling globe's, globe's, globing

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    n.a round model of the Earth with a map on it.

    n.a spherical representation of the Earth, typically mounted on an axle to allow rotation.

    Simple

    The teacher spun the globe to show the students where Australia is located.

    In context

    The library houses a rare seventeenth-century globe that depicts California as an island, reflecting the geographical misconceptions of the era.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.the planet Earth, especially when talking about things that happen everywhere.

    n.the planet Earth, often used in the context of global systems, travel, or environmental issues.

    Simple

    Climate change is a problem that affects every country on the globe.

    In context

    The company has expanded its operations across the globe, establishing regional headquarters in every major financial hub.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.any object that is shaped like a ball.

    n.any body or object having the shape of a sphere.

    Simple

    The ceiling was decorated with beautiful glass globes that held small candles.

    In context

    The scientist observed the liquid forming into tiny globes as it floated in the zero-gravity environment of the space station.

  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate British EnglishDialect

    n.a glass bulb that produces light.

    n.an incandescent or LED light bulb.

    Simple

    The kitchen light went out, so I need to buy a new globe.

    In context

    He climbed the ladder to replace the blown globe in the hallway, careful not to drop the fragile glass casing.

    Teacher's tip

    This usage is primarily found in Australian and South African English; most other English speakers use 'bulb'.

  5. 05 C2 Proficiency Literary

    v.to form into the shape of a ball.

    v.to take on or be formed into a spherical shape.

    Simple

    The water started to globe on the surface of the leaf after the rain.

    In context

    In his poetry, he describes how the morning dew begins to globe upon the petals, catching the first rays of the sun.

Some parts of the globe had a chance to see the rare event when the Sun, Earth and Moon line up in the night sky.

BBC News· 28 Aug 2026

Jet lag - the world's most annoying holiday souvenir – is the price we pay for flying off around the globe on travels or holidays.

BBC News· 5 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated