intergalattico

Intergalattico is the Italian adjective meaning intergalactic in English. It is used to describe things that occur between galaxies or operate on a scale spanning more than one galaxy. The term is used in astronomy, cosmology, and popular science, and appears in other Romance languages with similar forms, such as intergaláctico in Spanish and intergaláctico in Portuguese.

The word derives from inter- (between) and galattico, ultimately from galassia (galaxy), itself from Greek galaxias, related to galaktikos (milky). The evolution of the term reflects the historical association between the Milky Way and the broader structure of the universe.

In astrophysics, the space between galaxies is described as the intergalactic medium. It is a diffuse, tenuous gas that traces the large-scale structure known as the cosmic web and connects galaxies. The intergalactic environment plays a role in processes such as galaxy interactions, gas exchange, and the propagation of radiation across cosmological distances.

In science fiction, intergalattico is commonly used to describe travel, civilizations, or phenomena that span multiple galaxies. It conveys a sense of scale beyond the more immediate interstellar realm and is often employed to explore themes of exploration, contact, and conflict on a cosmic stage.

See also: Intergalactic medium, Interstellar.