Polyhedron

/ˌpɒliˈhɛdrən/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A solid figure with many plane faces, typically more than six.
The teacher showed us the properties of a cube, which is a type of polyhedron.
A three-dimensional shape formed by the joining of polygons.
In geometry, we often study the characteristics of different polyhedra, such as the tetrahedron and dodecahedron.
An object with flat surfaces that enclose a volume in three-dimensional space.
The artist created a sculpture that resembled a complex polyhedron with intricate designs on each face.

Etymology

From the Greek words 'poly' meaning 'many' and 'hedron' meaning 'face'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

Platonic solids
A special category of polyhedra whose faces are all the same regular polygon.
convex polyhedron
A polyhedron where any line connecting two points inside it does not exit the solid.
Euler's formula
A formula relating the number of vertices, edges, and faces of a polyhedron.

Related Words

tetrahedron
A polyhedron with four triangular faces.
cube
A polyhedron with six square faces.
dodecahedron
A polyhedron with twelve flat faces.

Slang Meanings

Punk rock
That band has a polyhedron vibe, full of edgy corners.
Complexity
This project is getting really polyhedron with all the added layers.