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Cubic: meaning, definitions and examples

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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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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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.

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.

Etymology

  • 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.

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "cubic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cúbico

🇮🇳 घनाकार

🇩🇪 kubisch

🇮🇩 kubik

🇺🇦 кубічний

🇵🇱 sześcienny

🇯🇵 立方体の (りっぽうたいの)

🇫🇷 cubique

🇪🇸 cúbico

🇹🇷 kübik

🇰🇷 입방체의 (입방체)

🇸🇦 مكعب

🇨🇿 kubický

🇸🇰 kockový

🇨🇳 立方的 (lìfāng de)

🇸🇮 kockast

🇮🇸 teningslaga

🇰🇿 кубтық

🇬🇪 კუბური

🇦🇿 kübik

🇲🇽 cúbico

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.