Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary - universe

 noun  Etymology: Middle English, from Latin universum, from neuter of universus entire, whole, from uni- + versus turned toward, from past participle of vertere to turn — more at worth  Date: 14th century  1. the whole body of things and phenomena observed or postulated ; cosmos: as  a. a systematic whole held to arise by and persist through the direct intervention of divine power  b. the world of human experience  c.  (1) the entire celestial cosmos  (2) Milky Way galaxy  (3) an aggregate of stars comparable to the Milky Way galaxy  2. a distinct field or province of thought or reality that forms a closed system or self-inclusive and independent organization  3. population 4  4. a set that contains all elements relevant to a particular discussion or problem  5. a great number or quantity a large enough ~ of stocks…to choose from — G. B. Clairmont