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universe

noun
uni·​verse | \ ˈyü-nə-ˌvərs How to pronounce universe (audio) \

Definition of universe

1 : the whole body of things and phenomena observed or postulated : cosmos: such as
a : a systematic whole held to arise by and persist through the direct intervention of divine power
b : the world of human experience
c(1) : the entire celestial cosmos
(2) : milky way galaxy
(3) : an aggregate of stars comparable to the Milky Way galaxy
2 : a distinct field or province of thought or reality that forms a closed system or self-inclusive and independent organization
3 : population sense 4
4 : a set that contains all elements relevant to a particular discussion or problem
5 : a great number or quantity a large enough universe of stocks … to choose from— G. B. Clairmont
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Examples of universe in a Sentence

How many stars are there in the universe? It means more to me than anything else in the entire universe.
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Recent Examples on the Web

 Particle physics focuses on the basic building blocks of everything in the universe. — Dylan Loeb Mcclain, BostonGlobe.com, "Ann Nelson, expert on particle physics, 61," 29 Aug. 2019 Part 4 explores how discoveries of life in the deep sea are informing the search for life elsewhere in the universe. — Rebecca Asoulin, The Christian Science Monitor, "Wait, fish make noise? Meet the ‘fish listeners.’ (audio)," 29 Aug. 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'universe.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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First Known Use of universe

1589, in the meaning defined at sense 1

History and Etymology for universe

Middle English, from Latin universum, from neuter of universus entire, whole, from uni- + versus turned toward, from past participle of vertere to turn — more at worth

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More Definitions for universe

universe

noun
How to pronounce universe (audio)

English Language Learners Definition of universe

: all of space and everything in it including stars, planets, galaxies, etc.
: an area of space or a world that is similar to but separate from the one that we live in
: the people, places, experiences, etc., that are associated with a particular person, place, or thing

See the full definition for universe in the English Language Learners Dictionary

universe

noun
uni·​verse | \ ˈyü-nə-ˌvərs How to pronounce universe (audio) \

Kids Definition of universe

: all created things including the earth and heavenly bodies viewed as making up one system

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More from Merriam-Webster on universe

Rhyming Dictionary: Words that rhyme with universe

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for universe

Spanish Central: Translation of universe

Nglish: Translation of universe for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of universe for Arabic Speakers

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