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Scalene Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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scalene

[หˆskeษชหŒliหn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

mathematics

A scalene triangle is a type of triangle in which all three sides have different lengths. As a result, all the angles in a scalene triangle are also different. This distinguishes it from isosceles triangles, which have at least two equal sides, and equilateral triangles, which have three equal sides. Scalene triangles can have various angles, resulting in a wide variety of shapes within the triangle family.

Synonyms

asymmetric, unequal.

Examples of usage

  • In geometry, we studied various properties of scalene triangles.
  • A scalene triangle has no sides of equal length.
  • The artist drew a scalene triangle to illustrate asymmetry.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Geometry

  • In geometry, a scalene triangle is defined as having all sides of different lengths, which also means all angles are different.
  • The perimeter of a scalene triangle can be calculated by simply adding the lengths of its three sides together.
  • Scalene triangles can be categorized by their angles: they can be acute (all angles under 90ยฐ), obtuse (one angle over 90ยฐ), or right (one angle exactly 90ยฐ).

History

  • The term 'scalene' comes from the Greek word 'skalฤ“nos', meaning uneven. It showcases how ancient cultures contributed to modern mathematical language.
  • Mathematicians in ancient Greece were some of the first to study and classify different types of triangles, including scalene triangles.

Art and Design

  • Artists and architects often use scalene triangles to create dynamic and interesting compositions, as their irregularity can draw the eye.
  • Many logos and modern art pieces incorporate scalene triangles to convey movement and innovation due to their uneven nature.

Mathematics Education

  • Understanding scalene triangles is essential in geometry, as they help students learn the properties of various shapes and angles.
  • Teachers often use real-world examples, like the shapes of rooftops or certain tools, to illustrate scalene triangles in the classroom.

Science

  • The concept of scalene serves as an analogy in science to explain the variety of forms in nature, such as the asymmetry observed in certain animal bodies.
  • In physics, scalene triangles can be used to represent vectors of different magnitudes and directions, helping to visualize forces acting on an object.

Origin of 'scalene'

The word 'scalene' comes from the Greek word 'skalฤ“nos' (ฯƒฮบฮฑฮปฮทฮฝฯŒฯ‚), which means 'uneven' or 'disparate'. This term was adopted into Latin and subsequently into Middle English as 'scalene'. In the realm of geometry, it specifically refers to triangles where all sides are of different lengths, representing a concept that has been studied since ancient Greek mathematics. The classification of triangles into scalene, isosceles, and equilateral is fundamental in geometry, helping to distinguish the properties and relationships of these shapes. The use of 'scalene' in modern mathematics continues to emphasize the diversity and uniqueness of triangular forms.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,168 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.