cosmic ray

noun

: a stream of atomic nuclei of extremely penetrating character that enter the earth's atmosphere from outer space at speeds approaching that of light

Examples of cosmic ray 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 constant interactions between cosmic rays and CMB photons slows the cosmic ray, limiting their kinetic energy. Keith Cooper, Space.com, 16 May 2025 The cosmic rays projected onto an Aries are restorative and therapeutic. Lisa Stardust, People.com, 14 Feb. 2025 There, the minerals were protected from incoming cosmic rays that would have otherwise changed their chemical makeup over time. Nell Greenfieldboyce, NPR, 27 May 2025 Radiation exposure results from galactic cosmic rays and solar particle events. Eileen Falkenberg-Hull, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for cosmic ray

Word History

First Known Use

1925, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cosmic ray was in 1925

Cite this Entry

“Cosmic ray.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cosmic%20ray. Accessed 17 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

cosmic ray

noun
: a stream of atomic nuclei of extremely penetrating character that enter the earth's atmosphere from outer space at speeds approaching that of light

More from Merriam-Webster on cosmic ray

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