macrocosm — the whole of a complex structure, especially the universe, contrasted with a small or representative part of it
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: the whole of a complex structure, especially the universe, contrasted with a small or representative part of it
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈmækroʊkɑːzəm/
Example Sentences
- My messy room is a microcosm of the chaotic macrocosm that is my entire life.
- The philosopher studied how individual behavior reflects the macrocosm of society.
- In ancient times, people believed that humans were a microcosm of the divine macrocosm.
macrocosm
NOUN[/ˈmækroʊkɑːzəm/]
the whole of a complex structure, especially the universe, contrasted with a small or representative part of it
The universe versus its tiny part
Bridge the chasm with cosmic enthusiasm!
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word derives from Greek, combining 'makros' (large, great) and 'kosmos' (world, universe, order). Medieval philosophers adopted the term to describe the universe as a whole, contrasting it with 'microcosm' (the individual human being).
Breakdown
macro- (from Greek makros, meaning large) + -cosm (from Greek kosmos, meaning world or universe). Together they denote the great world or universe as a unified system.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My messy room is a microcosm of the chaotic macrocosm that is my entire life.”
“The philosopher studied how individual behavior reflects the macrocosm of society.”
“In ancient times, people believed that humans were a microcosm of the divine macrocosm.”
“The CEO's office drama somehow became a perfect microcosm of the corporate macrocosm's dysfunction.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related
Want to master 19,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.