Heavens: meaning, definitions and examples

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heavens

 

[ ˈhɛvənz ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

in religion

The heavens refer to the sky, the outer space, or the realm of the divine beings in religious beliefs. It is often seen as a place of ultimate power and authority.

Synonyms

celestial sphere, firmament, sky.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
heavens

Often used in a poetic or religious context to describe the sky or the abode of deities.

  • The stars shone brilliantly in the heavens.
  • He prayed to the heavens for guidance.
sky

A general term used in everyday language to refer to the atmosphere or the space visible above the earth.

  • The sky was a beautiful shade of blue that morning.
  • Birds were flying high in the sky.
celestial sphere

Commonly used in an astronomical or scientific context to describe an imaginary sphere encompassing the earth with celestial bodies 'located' upon it.

  • Astronomers use the concept of the celestial sphere to chart the positions of stars.
  • The celestial sphere is an important concept in understanding the cosmos.
firmament

Typically used in literary or religious texts to refer to the sky or heavens, suggesting a firm, solid structure.

  • The firmament was clear and the stars were visible to the naked eye.
  • The songbird soared through the firmament.

Examples of usage

  • The stars in the heavens were shining brightly that night.
  • She prayed to the heavens for guidance.
Context #2 | Noun

expressing surprise or emotion

Heavens is used as an exclamation to show strong emotion or surprise, similar to 'oh my God' or 'goodness'. It is a way of expressing intense feelings.

Synonyms

OMG, goodness, wow.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
heavens

Used to express surprise or amazement, often in a more old-fashioned or formal context.

  • Heavens above, that was an unexpected turn of events!
  • Good heavens, I didn't expect to see you here.
goodness

Shows mild surprise or relief and is often used in everyday informal speech.

  • Goodness, I left my keys at home!
  • Oh my goodness, I can't believe how much they've grown!
OMG

An abbreviation for 'Oh my God,' commonly used in informal texts or speech, especially among younger people.

  • OMG, did you see what she was wearing?
  • OMG, I just won free tickets to the concert!
wow

Expresses wonder, admiration, or disbelief and can be used in both formal and informal settings.

  • Wow, that presentation was impressive!
  • Wow, I can't believe you did all this by yourself!

Examples of usage

  • Heavens! I can't believe it!
  • Good Heavens, that was close!

Translations

Translations of the word "heavens" in other languages:

🇵🇹 céus

🇮🇳 स्वर्ग

🇩🇪 Himmel

🇮🇩 langit

🇺🇦 небеса

🇵🇱 niebiosa

🇯🇵 天国 (てんごく)

🇫🇷 cieux

🇪🇸 cielos

🇹🇷 gökler

🇰🇷 하늘 (haneul)

🇸🇦 السماوات (as-samawat)

🇨🇿 nebesa

🇸🇰 nebesá

🇨🇳 天 (tiān)

🇸🇮 nebesa

🇮🇸 himnar

🇰🇿 аспан

🇬🇪 ცა (tsa)

🇦🇿 göylər

🇲🇽 cielos

Etymology

The word 'heavens' has been used in English since the 13th century. It is derived from the Old English word 'heofon', which has roots in Germanic and Old Norse languages. The concept of heavens has been present in various religious and mythological beliefs throughout history, symbolizing the realm of gods or the afterlife.

See also: heavenly, heavenward, heavenwards.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,721 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.