island universe

noun

: a galaxy other than the Milky Way

Examples of island universe in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The galaxy spanning Edwin Hubble’s glass plates will be an island universe no more. — WIRED, 12 Nov. 2023 The clusters will survive, but each one will become an island universe, effectively alone in a vast expanse of nothingness. — Popular Mechanics, 6 June 2023 Kevin Bacon’s Peter Kell, the billionaire businessman who is the true master of this island universe. — Elise Taylor, Vogue, 23 May 2025 That’s interesting work suggesting that island universes, as galaxies were originally called, may not be so independent after all. — The Physics Arxiv Blog, Discover Magazine, 23 June 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1867, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of island universe was in 1867

Rhymes for island universe

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Browse Nearby Words

island scrub jay
island universe
Islay
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Cite this Entry

“Island universe.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/island%20universe. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

island universe

noun
: a galaxy other than the Milky Way
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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