1. The branch of astrophysics that studies the origin and evolution and structure of the universe
   "cosmology theories attempt to explain the formation of galaxies"
    
2. The metaphysical study of the origin and nature of the universe
   "Modern cosmology attempts to explain the formation and evolution of galaxies"
    
3. A theory or account of how the universe originated and developed
   "The steady state cosmology was eventually replaced by the Big Bang theory";
   - cosmogeny, cosmogony

Derived forms: cosmologies

Type of: astrophysics, metaphysics

Encyclopedia: Cosmology