cosmos
The English word cosmos is translated into Latin as cosmos.
The term refers to the universe when it is viewed specifically as a complex, ordered and harmonious system.
Meaning: universe regarded as a system with harmony and order (noun)
Did you know?
- The Latin usage of cosmos influenced the development of the word 'cosmetic' in English. This is because the original Greek and Latin roots for 'ordering' the universe also applied to 'ordering' or beautifying the face.
- While cosmos refers to the ordered universe, the Romans more frequently used the word mundus to describe the world. In Latin, mundus is derived from the word for 'clean' or 'elegant', linking the idea of the universe to physical tidiness.
- In later medieval Latin, the concept of a structured 'cosmos' often transitioned into the term 'microcosmus' to describe a human being as a miniature version of the universe.
Examples in context
- Intellegere cosmos est sapientiam quaerere.To understand the cosmos is to seek wisdom.
Example conversation
Two students discuss philosophy in a library.
- ClaudiaMarce, videtne cosmos rationem habere?Marcus, do you see that the cosmos has a reason?
- MarcusIta, Claudia, omnia in cosmos concordant.Yes, Claudia, all things in the cosmos agree.
- ClaudiaEstne cosmos aeternus?Is the cosmos eternal?
- MarcusCredo hunc cosmos sine fine esse.I believe this cosmos to be without end.
