Isosceles triangle is a geometric shape with two equal sides and two equal angles. The spelling of isosceles triangle is [aɪˈsɒsəliːz ˈtraɪæŋɡl]. The first syllable is pronounced as "eye" and the stress is on the second syllable. The "s" in "isosceles" is pronounced as "z". The "o" in "isosceles" is pronounced as "ɒ". The word "triangle" is pronounced as "ˈtraɪæŋɡl". Note that the "a" has a short vowel sound and the stress is on the first syllable.
An isosceles triangle is a geometric figure consisting of three sides and three angles. The defining characteristic of an isosceles triangle is that it has two sides that are the same length, while the third side is of a different length. As a result, the two angles opposite the equal sides are congruent to each other, while the remaining angle, opposite the different side, is called the base angle.
The name "isosceles" originates from the Greek words "isos," meaning equal, and "skelos," meaning leg. These two legs, referring to the equal sides, share the same length and are therefore symmetrical. This symmetry gives rise to other properties unique to isosceles triangles. One of the most notable properties is that the base angles are congruent, which means they have the same measure.
In an isosceles triangle, the remaining side that differs in length from the equal sides is known as the base. The base is connected to the apex, which is the vertex opposite the base. The apex angle, formed by the two equal sides, is often the largest angle in an isosceles triangle.
This type of triangle appears frequently in mathematics and various fields of study, including engineering, architecture, and physics. Its symmetrical nature and distinct properties make it a valuable concept when exploring geometric principles and problem-solving.
The word "isosceles" is derived from the Greek words "isos" meaning "equal" and "skelos" meaning "leg". The word "triangle" also has Greek origins, where "tri" means "three" and "gonia" means "angle". Therefore, "isosceles triangle" translates to "triangle with two equal legs".