star formation

[ stahr fawr-mey-shuhn ]

noun

, Astronomy.

1. a process that takes place within a molecular cloud, in which a dense region of gas and dust collapses and produces stars.
2. the branch of astronomy that deals with all aspects and stages of the formation of stars.

Word History and Origins

Origin of star formation¹

First recorded in 1850–55

Example Sentences

“If it had enough time to get to this massive size, whatever process that stopped star formation likely happened relatively quickly.”

From Salon

"In these early epochs, the amount of gas around galaxies is so large that continuous star formation is the norm. But in this galaxy this process is not happening."

From Salon

"In these early epochs, the amount of gas around galaxies is so large that continuous star formation is the norm. But in this galaxy this process is not happening; there is a spanner in the cogs of the star-forming 'machinery.'"

From Salon

This 'mix' can possibly affect the star formation in the nearby cloud.

From Space Scoop

This is usually the case where there is heavy star formation going on.

From Space Scoop