Pronunciation: [pˈɛntaŋɡə͡l] (IPA) 
Pentangle is spelled with the letter "t" between "p" and "a" because it comes from the Greek word "pentagonon," meaning "five angles." In IPA phonetic transcription, it is /ˈpɛntæŋɡəl/. The "p" sound is pronounced as in "pig," the "e" is pronounced as in "bet," the "n" as in "no," and the "t" as in "top." The "æ" sound is pronounced as in "cat," the "ŋ" as in "sing," the "g" as in "go," and the "ə" as in "the."
Pentangle is a noun that refers to a figure or symbol composed of five interwoven lines or shapes, particularly forming a five-pointed star. The term originates from the combination of the prefix "penta-" meaning "five" and the root word "angle" meaning "a geometric figure formed by two lines or planes diverging from a common point." The pentangle is often associated with various cultural and mythological interpretations, representing different concepts depending on the context.
In geometry, the pentangle is classified as a regular star polygon, distinguished by its unique five-fold rotational symmetry. It is a key symbol in mathematics, architecture, and art, sometimes used to represent balance, harmony, or the infinite.
Beyond mathematics and academia, the pentangle has rich cultural significance. In pagan traditions, it can be seen as a protection symbol or a representation of the five elements: earth, air, fire, water, and spirit. In Christian iconography, the pentangle is linked to the concept of the Five Wounds of Christ (nail marks on his hands and feet, and the piercing of his side), or is associated with the Pentecost, a Christian holiday that commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit.
Overall, the term pentangle refers to a five-pointed star or figure with multiple interpretations depending on the field of study or cultural background.
The word "pentangle" derives from the Old French word "pentangle" or "pentagone", which originally came from the Latin word "pentagonum". In Latin, "pentagonum" refers to a figure with five sides, derived from the Greek word "pente", meaning "five", and "gonia", meaning "angle". The term later appeared in Middle English as "pantacle" or "pentangle", specifically referring to a five-pointed star or a pentagram. "Pentangle" is most commonly associated with the symbol used by Sir Gawain in the Arthurian legends, where it represents different moral virtues.
