Astronomic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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astronomic

[รฆstrษ™หˆnษ’mษชk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

related to astronomy

The term 'astronomic' refers to anything related to astronomy or celestial bodies. It often describes measurements or scales that are extraordinarily large, such as distances in space that are measured in light-years. Astronomic phenomena can include events like supernovae, black holes, and the movement of planets and stars. In some contexts, it is used to emphasize the vastness and immensity of something, particularly when discussing distances and sizes beyond typical comprehension.

Synonyms

celestial, cosmic, stellar.

Examples of usage

  • The astronomic distances between stars can be difficult to grasp.
  • Scientists study various astronomic events to understand the universe better.
  • The telescope provided astronomic views of distant galaxies.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Science

  • Astronomical units are used to measure distances in space, with one unit equaling the average distance from Earth to the Sun (about 93 million miles).
  • The observable universe is estimated to be around 93 billion light-years in diameter, showcasing just how huge things can be.

Finance

  • In financial contexts, the term often refers to exorbitant amounts, like debts or expenses that are far beyond normal levels.
  • When a companyโ€™s profits are described as astronomical, it suggests they are exceptionally high compared to the average.

Literature

  • Writers often use 'astronomic' to create vivid imagery in descriptions of wealth or size, enhancing the narrative's emotional impact.
  • In poetry, the term can symbolize aspirations or dreams that feel overwhelmingly large, reminiscent of the vastness of space.

Pop Culture

  • The term has appeared in song lyrics and movie dialogues to describe overwhelming relationships or experiences.
  • With the rise of science fiction, 'astronomic' also refers to concepts of space travel, alien worlds, and the unimaginable sizes within galaxies.

Origin of 'astronomic'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek 'astron,' meaning 'star,' and 'nomos,' meaning 'law' or 'distribution.'
  • It originally referred to the laws governing stars but evolved to describe anything vast or immense.

The word 'astronomic' is derived from the Greek word 'astron' meaning 'star' and the suffix 'nomia' which originates from the Greek 'nomos,' meaning 'law.' This etymology reflects the study of celestial bodies and their movements, which were governed by natural laws observable from Earth. The term has evolved in usage, particularly during the Renaissance and Enlightenment periods when astronomy became more established as a scientific discipline. It began to take on additional meanings related to vastness and magnitude, especially in discussions about both physical and metaphorical distances. Over time, 'astronomic' has also been used in popular culture to describe not just celestial measurements but anything perceived to be overwhelmingly large or significant, which showcases the changing connotations of the term throughout history.