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Pyramidal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pyramidal

[ˌpɪrəˈmædəl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

shape structure

Pyramidal refers to something that has the shape of a pyramid, with a polygonal base and triangular sides that converge at a single point. This term is commonly used in geometry, architecture, and biology to describe forms resembling a pyramid.

Synonyms

conical, prismatic, triangular.

Examples of usage

  • The pyramidal design of the building attracted many tourists.
  • The pyramidal cells in the brain have a unique structure.
  • We studied various pyramidal shapes in our geometry class.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Architecture

  • Pyramidal structures are found in many cultures, from the Egyptian pyramids to Mesoamerican step pyramids, representing different religious and societal meanings.
  • The largest pyramid in the world by volume is the Great Pyramid of Cholula in Mexico, covered by a religious shrine and hidden under a hill.

Mathematics

  • In geometry, a pyramidal number is a figurate number that represents a pyramid with a triangular base.
  • Pyramidal numbers can be calculated for different bases, leading to interesting patterns in number theory.

Art

  • In art, the pyramidal composition is a technique used by painters to create a sense of stability and balance in their artworks.
  • Famous examples include Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Virgin of the Rocks', where the figures are arranged in a triangular formation to create unity.

Natural Sciences

  • Certain plants exhibit a pyramidal growth form, allowing them to optimize sunlight exposure, as seen in some conifers.
  • In ecology, pyramidal structures can describe the distribution of biomass in ecosystems, often depicted in a pyramid shape.

Origin of 'pyramidal'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from 'pyramid', which traces back to the Greek 'pyramis', referring to the famous structures in Egypt.
  • The suffix '-al' indicates that something has the characteristics of or relates to the noun it follows, hence 'pyramidal' means related to a pyramid.

The word 'pyramidal' derives from the Latin term 'pyramidalus', which comes from the Greek word 'pyramidos', meaning 'of or belonging to a pyramid'. The root 'pyramis' in Greek relates to both 'fire' and 'wedge', possibly associated with the triangular shape and the significance of the pyramids in ancient civilizations. Pyramids have been structures of mystique and importance in various cultures, especially within ancient Egypt, where they served as monumental burial sites. Their geometric properties have intrigued mathematicians and architects throughout history, leading to the widespread use of the term 'pyramidal' in various fields such as art, architecture, and natural sciences.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,911, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.