angular

Think of a jagged mountain range or the sharp edges of broken glass—that's angular. It describes shapes and lines defined by angles rather than smooth curves. This applies to people as well; an angular face is lean, with sharp bone structure. But it's not just about what you see. Someone with an angular personality might be stiff, formal, or even awkward in social situations. The word often implies a certain severity or lack of softness. You wouldn't describe a fluffy cloud as angular, but you definitely could describe the architecture of a modern skyscraper!

The word angular primarily describes something having angles—sharp corners rather than curves. This is most commonly used to describe physical shapes: an angular face with prominent cheekbones and a sharp jawline, or angular furniture with straight lines and geometric designs. Think of the difference between a rounded pebble and a sharply cut diamond; the diamond is angular.

However, angular extends beyond just static visual descriptions. It can also describe movement, personality, or style. An angular person might be perceived as reserved, formal, lacking in social grace, or even harsh. Their movements might seem stiff or jerky rather than fluid and relaxed. In a figurative sense, an angular writing style can be direct, concise, and perhaps a little blunt—avoiding flowery language.

Historically, the word comes from the Latin angulus, meaning "angle." It's often used to create a specific mood or impression—suggesting strength and precision, but also potentially coldness or rigidity. You might describe a building as having angular lines to emphasize its modern and imposing design, or note that someone's angular demeanor makes them seem unapproachable.

So whether describing the shape of an object, the style of architecture, or the personality of a person, angular suggests a prevalence of sharp angles and a departure from softness or fluidity.