Sinuosity Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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sinuosity
[sɪˈnjuː.ɪ.ti ]
Definition
geographical term
Sinuosity refers to the quality of being sinuous or having many curves and bends. In geography, it describes the winding nature of a river or pathway, showcasing how intricate and meandering its shape can be. This characteristic can affect how water flow is distributed and the types of ecosystems that develop along such curves. Additionally, sinuosity can be utilized in various scientific fields, including biology, to describe the winding patterns of organisms or cellular structures.
Synonyms
curviness, meandering, serpentine.
Examples of usage
- The sinuosity of the river caused flooding.
- Scientists measured the sinuosity of the coastline.
- The sinuosity of the pathway made the hike more difficult.
Translations
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Origin of 'sinuosity'
The term 'sinuosity' originates from the Latin word 'sinuositas', which is derived from 'sinuosus', meaning 'full of curves' or 'winding'. This Latin root itself is a combination of 'sinus', meaning 'curve' or 'bay', reflecting the natural, shaped form evident in various landscapes. The word has been used since the late 19th century in English to describe geographical formations. Its application has expanded into diverse scientific fields to express the complexity and irregularity of forms in nature and biology, reinforcing its relevance in both descriptive and analytical contexts.