big science

noun

variants or Big science
: large-scale scientific research consisting of projects funded usually by a national government or group of governments

Examples of big science in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Big science, big detectors One modification that NASA made included building a large focal plane, the component of the telescope that collects light, made up of 18 wide area near-infrared detectors. — Don Figer, The Conversation, 27 Aug. 2026 Big field of view means big science Furthermore, capturing information from billions of objects in such a short period of time will enable specific kinds of research, such as the hunt for the truth about dark matter and dark energy. — Monisha Ravisetti, Space.com, 25 Aug. 2026 Rather than choose a class, players start off as Understaffed Workers, the future dino snacks working at the big science theme park for minimum wage. — Rob Wieland, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025 Spaceballs delighted comedy audiences upon its release in 1987 as a send-up of the big science fiction franchises. — Jordan Hoffman, EW.com, 14 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for big science

Word History

First Known Use

1914, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of big science was in 1914

Rhymes for big science

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Browse Nearby Words

Big Sandy
big science
big-screen
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Cite this Entry

“Big science.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/big%20science. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on big science

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about big science

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