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Astronomical: meaning, definitions and examples

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astronomical

 

[ˌastrəˈnɒmɪk(ə)l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

science

Relating to astronomy, the branch of science that deals with celestial objects, space, and the physical universe as a whole.

Synonyms

celestial, cosmic, stellar.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
astronomical

Used to describe something extremely large, often used in a hyperbolic sense.

  • The cost of the new spaceship was astronomical.
  • They faced an astronomical amount of work before the deadline.

Examples of usage

  • The new telescope allows for more accurate astronomical observations.
  • Astronomical research has led to significant discoveries about the universe.
Context #2 | Adjective

large scale

Extremely large or great in size, amount, or extent.

Synonyms

colossal, enormous, immense.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
astronomical

When talking about something extremely large in size or amount, often used with a sense of exaggeration or surprise. Can be used in scientific contexts as well.

  • The cost of the new stadium was astronomical.
  • The universe contains an astronomical number of stars.
enormous

Perfect for depicting something very large in size or amount. This word is common in everyday conversations and can describe both physical and abstract things.

  • The company posted an enormous profit this quarter.
  • She lives in an enormous house on the hill.
immense

Used to depict something extremely large or great, suggesting vastness or significant impact. Often carries a sense of awe.

  • The ocean's immense size can be overwhelming.
  • He has an immense talent for playing the piano.
colossal

Ideal for describing something so large that it impresses or astonishes. Often used to describe physical objects or achievements.

  • The colossal statue stood in the center of the square.
  • Building the bridge was a colossal engineering feat.

Examples of usage

  • The project requires an astronomical amount of funding.
  • The company experienced astronomical growth in the past year.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'astronomical' comes from the Greek words 'astron' meaning 'star' and 'nomos' meaning 'law', referring to the laws that govern the stars.
  • It was first used in the English language in the 1600s, reflecting humanity’s growing interest in the cosmos during that period.

Science

  • Astronomical units are used to measure distances in space, with one unit defined as the distance from Earth to the Sun – about 93 million miles.
  • Astronomy, the scientific study related to the term, helps us understand the universe's origins, structure, and the physics of celestial bodies.

Pop Culture

  • The word is popularly used in movies and books about space to describe grand events, such as 'astronomical costs' for space missions.
  • Many science fiction films utilize astronomical themes, showcasing intergalactic travel and alien encounters.

Mathematics

  • In astronomy, calculations often involve astronomical numbers, which can be extremely large, reflecting huge distances or quantities in space.
  • Astronomers use mathematical models to predict celestial movements, showing how maths is intertwined with the understanding of the cosmos.

Cultural Impact

  • Different cultures have myths and legends about the stars, with astronomical events often interpreted as omens or divine messages.
  • Stargazing has evolved from ancient practices into modern astronomy, highlighting humanity's enduring fascination with the night sky.

Translations

Translations of the word "astronomical" in other languages:

🇵🇹 astronômico

🇮🇳 खगोलीय

🇩🇪 astronomisch

🇮🇩 astronomi

🇺🇦 астрономічний

🇵🇱 astronomiczny

🇯🇵 天文学的 (てんもんがくてき)

🇫🇷 astronomique

🇪🇸 astronómico

🇹🇷 astronomik

🇰🇷 천문학의 (천문학적)

🇸🇦 فلكي

🇨🇿 astronomický

🇸🇰 astronomický

🇨🇳 天文的 (tiānwén de)

🇸🇮 astronomski

🇮🇸 stjarnfræðilegur

🇰🇿 астрономиялық

🇬🇪 ასტრონომიული

🇦🇿 astronomik

🇲🇽 astronómico

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,777, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.