noun
astronomy
uh-STRAH-nuh-mee/əˈstrɑːnəmi/
The scientific study of objects in space and the universe.
She studies astronomy to understand how stars and galaxies develop.
Etymology
“Star-regulating” perhaps originally referred to mapping constellations or planetary movements. The word once covered both scientific and occult study of heavenly bodies before narrowing to the scientific field.
In context
this aspect of astronomy evolved into an intricate study of planetary motion known as orbital mechanics
More examples
- The observatory offers evening classes in astronomy.
- Advances in telescopes transformed astronomy.
- Our astronomy club watched the lunar eclipse together.
Forms
astronomer noun — A scientist who studies objects in space.
astronomical adjective — Relating to astronomy or objects in space.
Similar words
- astrophysics
- Emphasizes the physical processes governing objects in space.
- cosmology
- Focuses on the universe's origins, structure, and development.