Microcosm

usgb/ˈmaɪkrəʊkɑːzəm/
noun

A small place, society, or situation that has the same characteristics as something much larger.

The village is a microcosm of the whole country.
Visual representation of "microcosm" - A small place, society, or situation that has the same characteristics as something much larger

Often appears as...

  • microcosm of society
  • personal microcosm

Usage tips

Formal

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "microcosm"
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Scale of Microcosm

Microcosm refers to something small representing a larger complexity.

Illustration for Scale of Microcosm
This diorama is a microcosm of the ancient city.
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Not Always Physical

Microcosm isn't restricted to physical spaces; it can be conceptual or situational.

Illustration for Not Always Physical
The debate team is a microcosm of our society's political discourse.
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Reflecting Diversity

Microcosms often capture diverse characteristics within a small frame.

Illustration for Reflecting Diversity
Our book club is a microcosm of the city's cultural mix.
Visual representation of the word "Microcosm"

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