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Trapezoidal: meaning, definitions and examples

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trapezoidal

 

[ trəˈpɛ.zəˌdɑːl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

geometric shape

The term 'trapezoidal' refers to a shape or figure that has the characteristics of a trapezoid, which is a four-sided figure (quadrilateral) with at least one pair of parallel sides. In mathematics and geometry, trapezoidal forms are significant in calculating areas and volumes, especially in calculus and engineering. Trapezoidal shapes can be found in various contexts, including construction, design, and physics. They are often used in graphical representations and data analysis as well.

Synonyms

quadrilateral, trapezoid-shaped

Examples of usage

  • The trapezoidal area of the field.
  • Trapezoidal numbers are used in mathematics.
  • The trapezoidal rule helps approximate integrals.
  • In architecture, trapezoidal windows can be aesthetically pleasing.

Translations

Translations of the word "trapezoidal" in other languages:

🇵🇹 trapézio

🇮🇳 ट्रेपेज़ॉइडल

🇩🇪 trapezförmig

🇮🇩 trapezoidal

🇺🇦 трапецієподібний

🇵🇱 trapezoidalny

🇯🇵 台形の

🇫🇷 trapézoïdal

🇪🇸 trapezoidal

🇹🇷 trapezoidal

🇰🇷 사다리꼴의

🇸🇦 مُعَشَّق

🇨🇿 trapezoidní

🇸🇰 trapezoidný

🇨🇳 梯形的

🇸🇮 trapezoidni

🇮🇸 trapezískur

🇰🇿 трапециялық

🇬🇪 ტრაპეზოიდური

🇦🇿 trapezoidal

🇲🇽 trapezoidal

Etymology

The word 'trapezoidal' originated from the Latin term 'trapezium', which is derived from the Greek 'trapezion', meaning 'little table'. The Greeks defined the shape as a four-sided figure with vertices that did not all lie on the same line. Over time, the term evolved, with 'trapezoidal' being coined to describe shapes specifically resembling trapezoids. The mathematical studies of trapezoidal figures gained prominence during the development of geometry in both ancient Greek and later European mathematics, where it became foundational in understanding areas and shapes. The concept carried through the Renaissance and further into the development of calculus, where the trapezoidal rule for approximating integrals was established, solidifying the importance of trapezoidal shapes in mathematics and its applications.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,782, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.