Kosmoses

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. The plural form referring to multiple universes or orderly complex systems; used to denote various distinct ordered wholes or worlds; often applied in philosophical or cosmological contexts describing multiple realms
2. Denoting several structured or harmonious entities representing the universe or organized systems; referring to diverse worlds or totalities in philosophy, astronomy, or metaphysics; used as a plural term for concepts of cosmic order
3. Indicating multiple instances of vast, orderly systems or universes; the term for several cosmic or metaphysical entities embodying universal order; commonly found in discussions about alternate worlds or comprehensive structured wholes

Etymology: "Kosmoses" is simply the plural of "kosmos," so its history is the history of that base word. "Kosmos" comes from Ancient Greek "kosmos," which originally meant order, arrangement, or ornament, the sense that gave later writers the idea of a well-ordered whole. The same Greek root is behind "cosmetic," which points to the older sense of orderly adornment. Because the base word in English is most often used for the universe as a single ordered totality, the plural is an inflected form that lets writers speak of several such ordered wholes at once. Its use is largely confined to philosophical and cosmological writing, where authors discuss more than one universe or self-contained system.

Synonyms: worlds, universes, orders, cosmoses