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Nebula Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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nebula

[ˈnɛb.jʊ.lə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

astronomy space

A nebula is a vast cloud of dust and gas in space, often considered the nursery for stars. They can be created from the gas expelled by dying stars or from material left over from the formation of stars. Some nebulae are visible to the naked eye, while others are seen only through powerful telescopes. They play a crucial role in the lifecycle of stars and galaxies.

Synonyms

cloud, gas cloud, haze, mist.

Examples of usage

  • The Orion Nebula is one of the most studied nebulae.
  • Astronomers have discovered a new nebula near the Milky Way.
  • The beauty of nebulae is often captured in stunning astrophotography.
  • Nebulae can be the birthplace of new stars.

Translations

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Origin of 'nebula'

The word 'nebula' comes from the Latin word for 'mist' or 'fog,' which reflects its ethereal and cloud-like appearance in the night sky. The usage of the term dates back to the early observations of celestial bodies, where early astronomers referred to these cosmic formations as nebulas due to their indistinct and often diffuse outlines. Historically, nebulae were seen as mysterious regions of space, and as telescope technology advanced, many of these objects were revealed to be star-forming regions or remnants of supernovae. The study of nebulae played a significant role in expanding our understanding of the universe, highlighting processes such as stellar birth and death, as well as the interconnectedness of cosmic events.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,291, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.