A supernova is a powerful explosion that happens when a star runs out of fuel and collapses or blows itself apart. For a short time, it can shine brighter than an entire galaxy.
From New Latin, based on Latin 'super' meaning 'above, beyond' and 'nova' meaning 'new (star)'. Historically, 'nova' was used for any new-looking star in the sky, and 'supernova' was later coined to describe the much more violent and brighter explosions.
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