Astrophysics
/ˌæstroʊˈfɪzɪks/noun
The branch of astronomy concerned with the physical properties and phenomena of celestial bodies and the universe.
Did you know?Astrophysics intertwines ancient stargazing traditions with modern science, revealing how our ancestors viewed the cosmos as a magical realm governed by divine forces.
Etymological Timeline
Greek
Ancient Greek
ἀστρονομία (astronomía)
“The law or arrangement of stars.”
Greek
Ancient Greek
φυσική (physikē)
“Natural science or the nature of things.”
Medieval Latin
Medieval Latin
physica
“Natural philosophy, encompassing the study of nature.”
16th Century
English
astrophysics
“The scientific study of the physical properties of celestial bodies.”
20th Century
English
astrophysics
“A formalized scientific discipline combining astronomy and physics.”