Meaning & Definition of word "Nebula"
Nebula
/ˈnɛb.jʊ.lə/
noun:
- 1. A cloud of gas and dust in outer space, typically one that is the birthplace of stars.
- Example: The Orion Nebula is one of the most studied regions of star formation.
- 2. A diffuse mass of interstellar matter, sometimes visible as a luminous object in the sky.
- Example: The Andromeda Galaxy contains many bright nebulae that can be observed with a telescope.
- 3. In astronomical classification, a nebula may also refer to any astronomical object that is not a star or a galaxy.
- Example: Hubble Space Telescope has captured stunning images of various nebulae throughout the universe.
Etymology
●Latin word 'nebula', meaning 'mist' or 'fog'
Common Phrases and Expressions
reflection nebula:
A type of nebula that reflects light from nearby stars.
planetary nebula:
A shell of gas ejected from a red giant star at the end of its life cycle.
supernova remnant:
The remains of a star that has exploded in a supernova, often appearing as a nebula.
Related Words
supernova:
The explosion of a star that results in a brilliant flash of light and can lead to the formation of a nebula.
star:
A luminous celestial body made of plasma, often formed within a nebula.
galaxy:
A system of stars, gases, and dust held together by gravity, containing many nebulae.