smithsonian
n. countablen. a famous group of museums and research centers in the United States. It is based in Washington, D.C., and looks after many important historical objects.
n. a group of museums and research centers established by the United States government. When used without 'the', it refers to the institution as a whole; when used with 'the', it typically refers to the physical museum complex.
We spent the whole day exploring the Smithsonian.
The Smithsonian houses millions of artifacts, including the original Wright brothers' airplane and the Hope Diamond.
Scholars from around the world collaborate with the Smithsonian to preserve cultural heritage and advance scientific understanding through its vast archival collections.
Usually capitalized; often functions as a collective noun for the entire institution or as a proper name for the museum complex.
I visited SmithsonianI visited the SmithsonianWhen referring to the museum buildings or the institution in general conversation, the definite article 'the' is required.