galaxy

/ˈgæləksi/

/ˈgælɪksi/

Other forms: galaxies

A galaxy is a collection of stars and planets that are held together by gravity. In a galaxy, the celestial bodies rotate around a central object.

The Earth's galaxy is known as the Milky Way. Our solar system, made up of the Sun and the planets that encircle it, is a tiny part of that galaxy. A galaxy can also refer to a gathering of a lot of sparkly people –– like celebrities or sports stars. What gravity holds this galaxy together? Usually cameras.

Definitions of galaxy

1. noun

   (astronomy) a collection of star systems; any of the billions of systems each having many stars and nebulae and dust
   synonyms: extragalactic nebula

   examples:

   Magellanic Cloud

   either of two small galaxies orbiting the Milky Way; visible near the south celestial pole

   types:

   spiral galaxy, spiral nebula

   a galaxy having a spiral structure; arms containing younger stars spiral out from old stars at the center

   Great Attractor

   a massive grouping of galaxies in the direction of Centaurus and Hydra whose gravitational attraction is believed to cause deviations in the paths of other galaxies

   Milky Way, Milky Way Galaxy, Milky Way System

   the galaxy containing the solar system; consists of millions of stars that can be seen as a diffuse band of light stretching across the night sky

   Andromeda galaxy

   a spiral galaxy in the constellation of Andromeda that is visible to the naked eye

   type of:

   accumulation, aggregation, assemblage, collection

   several things grouped together or considered as a whole
2. noun

   a splendid assemblage (especially of famous people)
   type of:

   accumulation, aggregation, assemblage, collection

   several things grouped together or considered as a whole
3. noun

   tufted evergreen perennial herb having spikes of tiny white flowers and glossy green round to heart-shaped leaves that become coppery to maroon or purplish in fall
   synonyms: Galax urceolata, beetleweed, coltsfoot, galax, wandflower

   type of:

   herb, herbaceous plant

   a plant lacking a permanent woody stem; many are flowering garden plants or potherbs; some having medicinal properties; some are pests