astronomical

adj

Etymology: Attested since at least 1550, from Middle French astronomique or directly from Latin astronomicus, from Ancient Greek ἀστρονομικός (astronomikós).

1. Of or relating to astronomy.

   “Finally, all men saw that astronomical knowledge lied not, and they awaited the comet.”

   “Drawings and pictures are more than mere ornaments in scientific discourse. Blackboard sketches, geological maps, diagrams of molecular structure, astronomical photographs, MRI images, the many varieties of statistical charts and graphs: These pictorial devices are indispensable tools for presenting evidence, for explaining a theory, for telling a story.”

2. Very large; of vast measure.

   “At the moment he wondered why anyone would want to visit Khatka, let alone pay some astronomical sum for the privilege.”

   “The cost of such a work now, of course, would be astronomical.”