GEOMETRIC FIGURE Meaning and
Definition
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A geometric figure is a shape or form that can be defined or described by mathematical principles and properties. It is a visual representation of a mathematical concept that helps in understanding and analyzing various aspects of geometry. Geometric figures can be two-dimensional, such as squares, triangles, circles, or polygons, or they can be three-dimensional, like cubes, pyramids, spheres, or cylinders.
In a two-dimensional context, geometric figures are confined to a plane and have only length and width. They can be composed of straight or curved lines depending on their type. These figures possess definite attributes, such as sides, angles, vertices, and diagonals, which all contribute to their unique characteristics and classification.
Three-dimensional geometric figures, on the other hand, extend into space with an added dimension. They have length, width, and height, and are characterized by faces, edges, and vertices. These figures can further be classified based on the number and shape of their faces, like prisms, pyramids, or spheres.
The study of geometric figures is an integral part of geometry, as it involves analyzing and understanding their properties, relationships, and various formulas associated with them. These figures have widespread applications in numerous fields such as architecture, engineering, physics, art, and computer graphics, where their properties and structures play a vital role in designing and representing objects and structures accurately.
Etymology of GEOMETRIC FIGURE
The word "geometric" comes from the Greek word "geōmetrikos" (γεωμετρικός), which is derived from "geōmetría" (γεωμετρία), meaning "geometry". "Geometry" in Greek is composed of two parts: "geō" (γῆ), meaning "earth", and "metron" (μέτρον), meaning "measure". Hence, "geometry" literally means "earth measurement".
The word "figure" in English was derived from the Old French word "figure", meaning "shape, form", which ultimately traces back to the Latin word "figura", meaning "form, shape, figure, portrayal".
