WordGarden.iovertex
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /vˈɜːtɛks/
US
- /ˈvɜrˌtɛks/
Meanings
Noun
a point where lines or edges meet in a geometric figure
a node in a graph or a point in a digital mesh where connections meet
the crown or top of the head
Beyond the definition
Imagine building with LEGO bricks. That sharp corner of each brick, where edges meet, is a vertex. This is the most common use of the word: in geometry, it means the corner point of a shape such as a triangle, square, or cube. It can also mean the top point of something, especially in more technical writing, like the highest point of an angle, a curve, or sometimes the top of the head. The idea is usually the same: one exact point where sides, lines, or surfaces come together.
The word "vertex" comes from Latin and is linked to the idea of a top or summit. While it often sounds technical, the basic meaning is simple: it is a point where lines, edges, or surfaces meet, or the top point of something.
Most commonly, you'll encounter "vertex" in geometry. A triangle has three vertices, which are the corner points where the sides join. A square has four, and a cube has eight. The word is also used for the highest or sharpest point of an angle, and in graphs or networks, a vertex can mean a node, or one point in a set of connected points.
The meaning also extends beyond mathematics. In anatomy, the vertex is the top of the head. In optics, it can mean the point where a lens surface meets its central axis. In everyday explanation, people may also use it for the top point of a shape or form. Whether you are looking at a polygon, a curved line, a network diagram, or the crown of the head, a vertex is usually the exact point where structure comes together or reaches its top.
Examples
- 1
Geometry
Measure the angle at each vertex of the triangle.
- 2
Grid geometry
The worksheet asks students to plot the vertices of the shape on a grid.
- Grammarvertices
the plural form of vertex
- 3
Network diagrams
In the network diagram, each computer is shown as a vertex connected by lines.
- Domain
in graph theory, a vertex can mean a point in a network, not just a corner of a shape
See also
Forms and spellings
3 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- vertexnoun
Forms
- verticespluralnoun
- vertexespluralnoun