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Glite Dictionary
➰ A rolling curve ⭕ Circular-shaped
cycloid

cycloid

9.1
Round in shape like a wheel
  • adjective
  • /ˈsaɪklɔɪd/
translation icon : ciclóide
  • The mathematics class learned about the cycloid curve and its unique properties in relation to circular motion.

Examples

  • "...through a nonlinear cycloid electromagnetic accumulator"

    Demolition Man (1993)

  • The design of the ferris wheel featured a cycloid shape, giving it a smooth, circular appearance.

  • The artist used a cycloid pattern in her painting to create a sense of movement and flow.

Synonyms

round
vscycloid
273 1.0

Having the shape of a circle or sphere

refers specifically to a two dimensional circle shape
circular
vscycloid
84 2.8

Having the shape of a circle

has identical meaning but differs only in word form
disk-shaped
vscycloid
  • US
1 3.8

Having a flat, round shape like a coin

is more general and not limited to flat forms

Compounds

curtate cycloid
  • Specialized
1 9.9

A curved line made by a point inside a circle as the circle rolls along a straight line

prolate cycloid
  • Specialized
9.9

A curved path made by a point outside a rolling circle

How Round

cycloid
9.1
rounded
1 2.4
oval
38 1.0
angular
15 3.8

Surface Forms

cycloid positive

Morphology

cycloid = cycle (transparent) = cyclo + oid

The adjective meaning 'circular or circle-like' directly follows from cycl(o)- 'circle' + -oid 'like/resembling', which is a transparent formation for learners familiar with 'cycle' or 'circle'.

Etymology

Cycloid comes from an old Greek word for 'circle', where cycl- means 'circle' and -oid means 'like' or 'shape of'. So cycloid simply means 'circle-like' or 'having the form of a circle', which is why it describes round or circular shapes.