Cubic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cubic

[ˈkjuːbɪk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

mathematics

Of, relating to, or denoting a cube or cuboid; cubic capacity. Cubic equations involve the highest power of an unknown quantity being three.

Synonyms

cubical.

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Word Description / Examples
cubic

In mathematics and geometry, 'cubic' is used to describe something with the shape of a cube or of the third degree.

  • The volume of the cube is 8 cubic meters.
  • We solved a cubic equation in today's algebra class.
cubical

Often used in everyday contexts to refer to shapes resembling a cube, or to describe a three-dimensional space, particularly in the context of offices.

  • The office was filled with small cubical workspaces.
  • He found himself trapped in a cubical room with no windows.

Examples of usage

  • The cubic root of 27 is 3.
  • A cubic meter is a unit of volume measurement.
Context #2 | Adjective

chemistry

Having a crystal structure with three equal axes at right angles.

Synonyms

cubical.

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Word Description / Examples
cubic

Best used in mathematical or geometric contexts to describe something that has the shape of a cube or involving cubes (e.g., volume calculations).

  • The box has a cubic shape, perfect for packing square items.
  • The problem asks you to calculate the cubic volume of the container.
cubical

Ideal for describing objects or structures that resemble a cube but may not be perfectly shaped like one. Often used in physical or architectural descriptions.

  • The office has multiple cubical partitions for employees.
  • The mansion's cubical rooms gave it a modern, geometric appearance.

Examples of usage

  • The mineral formed cubic crystals.
  • Salt often forms cubic crystals.
Context #3 | Noun

mathematics

A cubic space or capacity.

Synonyms

cube, cuboid.

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Word Description / Examples
cubic

This term is generally used in mathematical, scientific, or engineering contexts to describe a shape or a volume that is three-dimensional and has equal dimensions (length, width, and height). It is also used in algebra to describe equations of the degree three.

  • The volume of this box is 3 cubic meters.
  • He's solving a cubic equation in his math class.
cube

This word is appropriate when referring to a specific three-dimensional shape with six equal square faces. It can also be used more informally to describe small, cube-shaped items, especially in everyday contexts like cooking.

  • He cut the cheese into small cubes.
  • A Rubik's cube is a popular puzzle toy.
cuboid

This term is mostly used in geometric contexts to describe a three-dimensional rectangular box-like shape with rectangular faces, where the dimensions are usually not equal.

  • A shoebox typically has a cuboid shape.
  • In geometry class, we're learning about the properties of a cuboid.

Examples of usage

  • The tank has a cubic of 10 meters.
  • The room has a cubic of 100 cubic feet.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • Cubic shapes have volume calculations based on the formula length × width × height, or simply the length of one side cubed.
  • In geometry, cubic equations involve variables raised to the third power, often depicted as 'x³'.
  • A perfect cube is a three-dimensional figure that has sides of the same length, like a 2cm x 2cm x 2cm block.

Architecture

  • Many modern buildings feature cubic designs, emphasizing simplicity and functionality.
  • Famous structures, like the Barcelona Pavilion, showcase cubic forms to blend natural landscapes with architectural design.
  • Cubes are often used in minimalistic architecture, showcasing clean lines and clear geometric shapes.

Physics

  • In physics, cubic measurements are essential for quantifying the space occupied by materials, such as in cubic meters.
  • The concept of cubic behavior can be observed in the relationships of gas laws, where volume is directly proportional to the cubic dimensions.
  • Cubic symmetry is a type of symmetry in which objects retain their overall shape when rotated.

Pop Culture

  • The Rubik's Cube, invented in 1974, is a popular puzzle that challenges players with its colorful, cubic design.
  • In video gaming, cubic graphics are often associated with blocky, retro-style visuals, reminiscent of early computer games.
  • Cubic concepts appear in various artworks, influencing movements like Cubism, where subjects are analyzed through geometric forms.

Origin of 'cubic'

Main points about word origin

  • The term derives from the Latin word 'cubus', which translates to cube.
  • It made its way into English in the 15th century, reflecting the growing interest in geometry during the period.
  • Cubic also relates to the Latin 'cubicus', suggesting a connection to the characteristics of a cube.

The word 'cubic' originated from the Latin word 'cubus', meaning 'cube'. It has been used in English since the 15th century to describe things related to cubes or having a cubic shape. In mathematics, 'cubic' refers to the highest power of an unknown quantity being three, while in chemistry, it describes crystal structures with three equal axes at right angles.


See also: cub, cube, cubed, cubical, cubicle, cuboid.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,711, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.