\Cos"mos\ (k[o^]z"m[o^]s), n. [NL., fr. Gr. ko`smos
order, harmony, the world (from its perfect order and
arrangement); akin to Skr. [,c]ad to distinguish one's self.]
1. The universe or universality of created things; -- so
   called from the order and harmony displayed in it.
2. The theory or description of the universe, as a system
   displaying order and harmony. --Humboldt.

\Cos"mos\, n. (Bot.)
A genus of composite plants closely related to {Bidens},
usually with very showy flowers, some with yellow, others
with red, scarlet, purple, white, or lilac rays. They are
natives of the warmer parts of America, and many species are
cultivated. {Cosmos bipinnatus} and {C. diversifolius} are
among the best-known species; {C. caudatus}, of the West
Indies, is widely naturalized.