Stephen Hawking, the brightest star in the firmament of science, whose insights shaped modern cosmology and inspired global audiences in the millions, has died aged 76.

His family released a statement in the early hours of Wednesday morning confirming his death at his home in Cambridge.

Hawking's children, Lucy, Robert and Tim, said in a statement: "We are deeply saddened that our beloved father passed away today. He was a great scientist and an extraordinary man whose work and legacy will live on for many years. His courage and persistence with his brilliance and humour inspired people across the world.

"He once said: 'It would not be much of a universe if it wasn't home to the people you love.' We will miss him for ever."

▍生词好句

obituary /ə(ʊ)ˈbɪtʃəri, ə(ʊ)ˈbɪtʃʊəri/: n. 讣告

firmament /ˈfəːməm(ə)nt/: n. 天空；苍穹

cosmology /kɒzˈmɒlədʒi/: n. 宇宙学

sadden /ˈsad(ə)n/: vt. 使……悲伤

legacy /ˈlɛɡəsi/: n. 遗产