1
a(1)
: the apparent surface of the heavens of which half forms the dome of the visible sky
(2)
: any of the concentric and eccentric revolving spherical transparent shells in which according to ancient astronomy stars, sun, planets, and moon are set
b
: a globe depicting such a sphere
broadly
: globe sense a
2
a
: a globular body : ball
c(1)
: a solid that is bounded by a surface consisting of all points at a given distance from a point constituting its center see Volume Formulas Table
(2)
: the bounding surface of a sphere
3
: natural, normal, or proper place
especially
: social order or rank
not in the same sphere as his moneyed friends
4
a
obsolete
: orbit
b
: an area or range over or within which someone or something acts, exists, or has influence or significance
the public sphere
sphered; sphering
ˌsfir
1
: zone, layer or region enveloping or radiating from the earth or another celestial body
ionosphere
magnetosphere
2
: collectivity : totality (as specified by the initial element)
biosphere
blogosphere
Cite this Entry
“Sphere.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sphere. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.
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