Cosmology
/kɒzˈmɒl.ə.dʒi/noun
The scientific study of the large scale properties of the universe as a whole.
Did you know?The word 'cosmology' derives from ancient Greek, where 'kosmos' refers to the universe as an ordered, harmonious system—a concept intertwined with both science and philosophy.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
κόσμος (kósmos)
“Order, arrangement, or the universe as a harmonious whole.”
Middle Ages
Latin
cosmologia
“The study or discourse about the universe.”
16th Century
Early Modern English
cosmologie
“The science of the universe's structure and origin.”
19th Century
English
cosmology
“The branch of philosophy or science dealing with the nature of the universe.”