Astronomy Definition: Study of Stars and Planets

Meaning 1：study of stars and planets (astronomy)

astronomy 🔊

/əˈstrɒnəmi/

The science of studying things in space like stars, planets, and galaxies.

Person using telescope to study astronomy and starry night sky

study of stars and planets 🔊

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/ˈstʌdi əv stɑːrz ænd ˈplænɪts/

Astronomy is the branch of science that deals with celestial objects, space, and the physical universe as a whole.

📁 Category：Space Exploration 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

Greek: 'astron' (star) + 'nomos' (law) → 'star law'.

💡 Mnemonic

Think of 'astro' (star) + 'nomy' (arrangement) = the arrangement of stars.

📖 Example

Astronomy has always fascinated my younger brother; he spent weeks drawing a detailed map of the solar system. 🔊 Astronomy has always fascinated my younger brother; he spent weeks drawing a detailed map of the solar system.

🔗 Collocations

amateur astronomy – the practice of astronomy by hobbyists

astronomy club – a group of people who share an interest in astronomy

modern astronomy – the contemporary study of the universe using advanced technology

🔄 Synonyms

astrophysics (n.) – the branch of astronomy that deals with the physical properties of celestial objects

cosmology (n.) – the study of the origin and evolution of the universe

celestial mechanics (n.) – the branch of astronomy that deals with the motions of celestial bodies

🌱 Derivatives

astronomer (n.) – a person who studies astronomy

astronomical (adj.) – relating to astronomy; extremely large

astronomically (adv.) – in an astronomical manner; extremely

📖 Cultural Story

Astronomy originates from Greek astron (star) and nomos (law), referring to the systematic study of celestial bodies. Ancient Greeks like Ptolemy laid its foundations.