Figurate is a nine-letter word that is spelled with three syllables: /ˈfɪɡjʊrət/. The first syllable is pronounced with a short /ɪ/ sound, like "fit" or "bit". The second syllable is pronounced with a diphthong /ju/ sound, like "you" or "few". The final syllable is pronounced with a short /ə/ sound, like the "a" in "sofa". This word refers to something that is represented by a figure or shape, and is commonly used in mathematics and geometric analysis.
Figurate is an adjective that refers to a mathematical concept or object that can be visually represented or formed as a specific geometric shape. It is derived from the Latin term "figura," meaning shape or form. In mathematics, figurate numbers are a type of numerical sequence that can be arranged in a pattern that corresponds to a specific shape when plotted on a graph or visualized in space.
Figurate numbers include triangular numbers, which form equilateral triangles when represented geometrically. Other types of figurate numbers include square numbers, which form perfect squares, pentagonal numbers, which form regular (or irregular) pentagons, and so on. The term figurate is used to describe these numbers and their corresponding shapes because they exhibit a clear pattern or structure when plotted or visualized.
In a broader sense, figurate can also be used to describe any mathematical concept, object, or structure that can be represented geometrically or visually. For example, figurate graphs are graphs that visually depict a mathematical relationship or function. Figurate geometric shapes may include polygons, polyhedra, or any other object with well-defined sides, angles, and vertices.
Overall, figurate relates to the visual or geometric representation of mathematical concepts or objects, emphasizing their tangible or graphical qualities.
• a female ballet dancer
• Of a certain and determinate form.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "figurate" is derived from the Latin word "figuratus", which is the past participle of "figurare". In Latin, "figurare" means "to shape" or "to form", which is related to the noun "figura" meaning "figure" or "form". This Latin root gives rise to the English word "figurate", which is an adjective used to describe anything related to shapes, forms, or figures. In mathematics, "figurate" is often used to describe numbers or geometrical patterns that can be represented graphically or pictorially.