starburst

English

noun
Definitions
  • A violent explosion, or the pattern (likened to the shape of a star) supposed to be made by such an explosion.
  • (typography) A symbol similar to an asterisk, but with additional rays: ✺.
  • (astronomy) A region of space with an unusually high rate of star formation.
  • (astronomy) A period in time during which a region of space experiences an unusually high rate of star formation.

Etymology

Compound from English star (celestial body) + English burst.

Origin

English

burst

Gloss

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

Geogrpahic distribution of cognates

Cognates and derived terms