astronomy
2 synonyms for astronomy, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — The scientific study of stars, planets, and the wider universe, including their positions, motion, and physical properties.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
stargazing
uranology
Etymology
Astronomy came from Middle English astronomie, astronemy, which derived from Old French astronomie, equivalent to astro- plus -nomy. It displaced the native Old English word tungolcræft.
Full origin of astronomy →Frequently asked questions
What does “astronomy” mean?
The word “astronomy” means the scientific study of stars, planets, and the wider universe, including their positions, motion, and physical properties. In plain terms, the science of studying space, stars, and planets.
How do you pronounce “astronomy”?
“Astronomy” is pronounced uh-STRAHN-uh-mee (/əˈstɹɑn.ə.mi/ in IPA).
How do you use “astronomy” in a sentence?
Here is “astronomy” used in a sentence: “She majored in astronomy and now works at a research observatory.”
What part of speech is “astronomy”?
“Astronomy” is a noun.
Is “astronomy” a common word?
“Astronomy” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between astronomy and astrology?
Astronomy is the scientific study of stars, planets, and the wider universe, based on observation and physical evidence. Astrology, by contrast, is the belief system claiming celestial positions influence human affairs, and it is not a science.
What is the difference between astronomy and astrophysics?
Astronomy broadly covers the study of stars, planets, and the universe, including their positions and motion, while astrophysics is a branch within astronomy focused specifically on the physical properties and processes behind those objects. In practice, the two terms overlap heavily and are often used interchangeably.
What is the difference between astronomy and cosmology?
Astronomy studies stars, planets, and celestial objects generally, including their positions and motion, whereas cosmology narrows in on the origin, structure, and evolution of the universe as a whole. Cosmology can be thought of as a specialized branch within the broader field of astronomy.
