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Concentrically: meaning, definitions and examples

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concentrically

 

[kənˈsɛntrɪkli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

mathematics, geometry

Concentrically refers to two or more objects that share a common center. This term is often used in mathematics and geometry to describe circles or spheres that have the same center but different radii.

Synonyms

inwardly, jointly, simultaneously.

Examples of usage

  • The circles were arranged concentrically around the point.
  • The planets orbit the sun concentrically.
  • The design featured concentric circles.
  • The target's rings are arranged concentrically.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word combines the prefix 'con-' meaning 'together' or 'with', and 'centric', which comes from 'centrum', meaning 'center' in Latin.
  • It first came into use in the English language in the 17th century, primarily in geometry and mathematics.
  • The term highlights the concept of shared centers in various fields, like art, architecture, and ecology.

Mathematics

  • In geometry, concentric circles have the same center but different radii; they are foundational for understanding concepts like area and perimeter.
  • Concentric spheres are significant in physics, especially in studying gravity and electromagnetic fields.
  • Fractals often display concentric patterns, showcasing self-similarity on different scales, providing insight into chaos theory.

Art and Design

  • Artists use concentric patterns to create visual harmony in pieces, such as in mandalas or circular paintings.
  • Concentric designs are often utilized in architecture to enhance symmetry, leading to aesthetically pleasing structures like the Pantheon in Rome.
  • In graphic design, concentric shapes can guide the viewer's attention to a focal point, enhancing user experience.

Nature

  • Many natural formations, like ripples in water or growth rings in trees, are concentric, representing how life unfolds around a central idea or event.
  • Certain flowers, like daisies, exhibit concentric petal arrangements that aid in pollination by attracting specific insects.
  • The delicate structure of snowflakes often reveals concentric patterns, emphasizing how nature's beauty lies in symmetry.

Cultural Significance

  • In several cultures, concentric designs symbolize unity, harmony, and the connection between the individual and the universe.
  • Common in indigenous art, concentric motifs often reflect spiritual beliefs, representing the cycle of life and interconnectedness.
  • Concentric circles are often used in rituals and symbolic practices to denote protection or focus, like in circles for meditation.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,578, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.