Meaning & use

supernova

noun·Advanced

A massive explosion that occurs when a dying star collapses and violently blows apart, briefly outshining a whole galaxy.

See it in a sentence

Astronomers spotted a supernova in a distant galaxy through the telescope.

The heavy elements in our bodies were forged inside an ancient supernova.

A note on using this word

Plural is "supernovae" or "supernovas"; both forms are accepted in modern usage.

Words with a similar meaning

This term is best learned through its definition and examples.

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “supernova”, then compare your use with the examples above.

Your draft stays on this page and is not sent anywhere.