What does astronomically mean?
Astronomically is an adverb with two related senses. Its literal meaning describes something done in relation to astronomy — for example, ancient sailors navigating astronomically by observing the stars. Far more common today, however, is its extended, figurative sense: 'to an extremely large degree.' Because astronomical distances are so vast beyond ordinary comprehension, English speakers borrowed the word to describe anything overwhelmingly large, whether prices, salaries, temperatures, or odds. One might say housing costs have risen astronomically, or that a project's budget grew astronomically beyond its original estimate. The word carries a connotation of excess or enormity that often borders on hyperbole, making it a vivid choice for emphasis in both journalism and everyday conversation. It derives from Greek roots: astron, meaning star, and nomos, meaning arrangement or law. Related forms include astronomical, astronomy, and astronomer. For writers seeking an emphatic way to convey sheer scale, astronomically remains one of the most evocative options in modern English.
adverbIn a manner relating to astronomy, or to an extremely large degree or amount; by extension, enormously or exceedingly.
- To an extremely large degree; enormously (the dominant figurative sense in modern usage).
- In relation to astronomy or astronomical observations.
"Housing prices in the city have risen astronomically over the past decade."
"The cost of the mission was astronomically high, far exceeding initial estimates."
"Ancient navigators steered their ships astronomically, using the positions of stars to find their way."
The same word that describes the study of distant stars also describes your rent — 'astronomically' is science's most successful metaphor for 'way too much.'
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of astronomically
Astronomically derives from 'astronomical,' which comes from Latin astronomicus, itself borrowed from Greek astronomikos, from astronomia meaning 'star-arranging' or the science of heavenly bodies. The Greek roots combine astron ('star') and nomos ('law' or 'arrangement'). The figurative sense of 'enormously large' arose because astronomical figures — such as interstellar distances — dwarf ordinary human scales. Cognates include astronomy, astronomer, and astronomical, all sharing the same Greek root.
Related word forms
How astronomically is actually used
The figurative sense ('to an enormous degree') is now far more common than the literal astronomical sense and appears frequently in informal as well as formal contexts. It typically modifies adjectives of size, price, or quantity rather than verbs.
Easily confused with astronomically
'Astronomically' relates to the scientific study of celestial objects or to enormous size, while 'astrologically' relates to astrology, the belief that celestial bodies influence human affairs.