Meaning & Definition of word "Pentagon"

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    Pentagon

    /ˈpɛn.tɪˌɡɒn/

    noun:

    • 1. A five-sided polygon.
      • Example: The architect designed a building in the shape of a pentagon.
    • 2. The headquarters of the United States Department of Defense, located in Arlington, Virginia.
      • Example: The new defense policy was announced at the Pentagon.
    • 3. Any object or design that has five angles and five sides.
      • Example: The park featured a unique structure in the shape of a pentagon.

    Etymology

    From the Greek pentagōnos, meaning 'five angles.'

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    the Pentagon:

    Referring to the U.S. Department of Defense.

    Pentagon papers:

    A top-secret study of U.S. governmental decision-making in relation to the Vietnam War.

    Related Words

    polygon:

    A geometric figure with three or more sides.

    hexagon:

    A six-sided polygon.

    octagon:

    An eight-sided polygon.

    Slang Meanings of pentagon

    Meaning: A government building or authority.

    Example Sentence: The decisions coming from the Pentagon are critical for national security.

    Meaning: A term used to refer humorously to bureaucracy.

    Example Sentence: Dealing with the Pentagon can be a nightmare due to all the red tape.