WordGarden.iogeometrical
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /dʒˌiːəʊmˈɛtrɪkəl/
US
- /ˌdʒiəˈmɛtrɪkəl/
Meanings
Adjective
relating to geometry or its mathematical methods
made up of clear regular shapes or lines
Beyond the definition
If something is geometrical, it relates to the branch of mathematics called geometry: the study of points, lines, angles, and shapes. Think of straight edges, clear curves, and regular patterns. A quilt made of squares and triangles could be described as geometrical, while a painting of fluffy clouds probably would not.
The word often appears in art, design, and architecture. A geometrical pattern might decorate a tile floor, or a designer might create a building with a bold geometrical form. It can also describe things that look like clear shapes, even if they are not perfectly exact. For example, the arrangement of cells in a honeycomb is naturally geometrical.
"Geometrical" describes anything related to geometry—the study of shapes, sizes, the relative positions of figures, and the properties of space. It goes beyond just recognizing squares and circles; it's about understanding the mathematical principles that govern these forms. Think of a perfectly constructed snowflake—its intricate design is fundamentally geometrical.
You'll often encounter "geometrical" when discussing art and architecture. A painting with bold, angular shapes might be called "geometrical," as would a building designed with precise lines and symmetrical patterns. Artists like Piet Mondrian are famous for their geometrical abstract paintings, which rely on a strict grid of lines and primary colors.
However, the term isn't limited to man-made creations. Natural phenomena are frequently described as geometrical. The spiral arrangement of seeds in a sunflower or the hexagonal structure of a honeycomb both exhibit striking geometrical properties. Even the way crystals form and grow is governed by geometrical rules.
"Geometrical" can also describe something that resembles mathematical shapes, even if it is not perfectly exact. For instance, a garden laid out in neat circles, squares, or straight paths could be described as geometrical.
So, whether you're analyzing a work of art, studying the natural world, or simply describing a shape, "geometrical" points to an underlying order and precision rooted in the principles of geometry.
Examples
- 1
Interior design
The rug was covered in bold geometrical patterns.
- 2
Logo design
The designer used simple geometrical shapes to keep the logo clear and modern.
- 3
Aerial view
From the air, the fields looked almost geometrical.
- Phrasealmost geometrical
so regular and exact that something looks carefully planned
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- geometricaladjective