Globular Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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globular

[ˈɡlɒbjʊlə ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

shape of an object

Having the shape of a globe; spherical.

Synonyms

ball-shaped, round, spherical.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
globular

Used to describe something that is formed like a globe or being of a more general round shape, often in scientific contexts such as biology or astronomy.

  • The globular structure of the protein was crucial for its function
  • Astronomers discovered a globular cluster of stars in the galaxy
spherical

Used to describe three-dimensional objects that are perfectly round, often in mathematical or geometric contexts.

  • The Earth is not a perfect sphere, but it is close
  • The artist sculpted a perfectly spherical statue
round

Used in a more general sense to describe anything that is circular or has a curved shape, often applied to flat objects or 2D shapes.

  • She cut the pizza into round slices
  • They sat around a round table
ball-shaped

Typically used to describe everyday objects or items that resemble a literal ball in shape.

  • He found a ball-shaped stone near the river
  • The decoration was a ball-shaped ornament

Examples of usage

  • The globular cluster of stars was a beautiful sight through the telescope.
  • The plant had small globular flowers that attracted bees and butterflies.
Context #2 | Adjective

biology

Shaped like a small globe or round mass.

Synonyms

ball-shaped, round, spherical.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
globular

Used in more scientific or formal descriptions to indicate an object that is roughly spherical, often used in contexts like biology or astronomy.

  • The globular cluster of stars shone brightly in the night sky.
  • The bacteria have a distinct globular shape.
round

Informal and versatile, used to describe objects that have no sharp edges or corners. It can apply to both 2D circular shapes and 3D spherical objects.

  • The table had a round surface.
  • She picked up a round stone from the beach.
spherical

A geometric term used to describe perfectly round objects. Often used in mathematics, physics, or more technical discussions.

  • The Earth is not a perfect spherical shape.
  • He studied the spherical coordinates in his physics class.
ball-shaped

Casual description for objects that resemble a ball, used in everyday situations.

  • The cake was decorated with ball-shaped chocolates.
  • The new playground features a ball-shaped climbing structure.

Examples of usage

  • The globular protein was essential for the proper functioning of the cell.
  • The virus had a globular structure that made it difficult to target.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In astronomy, globular clusters are tightly packed groups of stars that resemble small balls.
  • Globular proteins are a category of proteins that fold into a spherical shape, critical for biological functions.

Mathematics

  • In geometry, globular shapes can be studied through the concept of spheres, which have uniform curvature.
  • The formula for the volume of a sphere, which is a globular shape, is (4/3)πr³.

Art

  • Artists often use globular shapes in sculpture and painting to create a sense of flow and movement.
  • In photography, globular subjects can lead to interesting compositions and focus on light reflections.

Cultural References

  • Globular is sometimes used in literature to describe things that are perfectly round, emphasizing harmony.
  • In children's toys, many items, such as balls and bubbles, are globular, making them engaging and fun.

Origin of 'globular'

Main points about word origin

  • The term derives from the Latin word 'globulus,' meaning a small sphere.
  • It has been used in the English language since the early 18th century.

The word 'globular' originated from the Latin word 'globulus', which means small sphere. It first appeared in the English language in the early 18th century. The term is commonly used in various fields such as astronomy, biology, and geometry to describe objects or structures that have a spherical or round shape.


See also: globetrotter.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,567, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.