Meaning & Definition of word "Bifurcation"
Bifurcation
/ˌbaɪ.fərˈkeɪ.ʃən/
noun:
- 1. the division of something into two branches or parts.
- Example: The bifurcation of the river created two distinct ecosystems.
- 2. a point at which something divides into two branches.
- Example: At the road bifurcation, we had to choose which path to take.
- 3. the process of splitting into two or more branches.
- Example: The bifurcation of the paths made it challenging to navigate through the forest.
- 4. in mathematics or science, a change in the structure or behavior of a system as a parameter is varied.
- Example: The bifurcation in the equations indicates potential points of instability in the system.
Etymology
●From the Latin 'bifurcus', meaning 'two-pronged' or 'forked'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
bifurcation of duties:
The splitting of responsibilities among different individuals or groups.
bifurcated path:
A road or trail that divides into two separate ways.
bifurcation point:
A critical spot where a system or process divides.
Related Words
fork:
A point where something divides into two or more directions.
division:
The action of separating something into parts.
branch:
A part of a tree that grows out from the trunk or from a bough.
Slang Meanings of bifurcation
Meaning: When a decision needs to be made that leads to two very different paths.
● Example Sentence: We're at a bifurcation here; do we keep advancing or retreat?
Meaning: A situation where things drastically change direction.
● Example Sentence: That conversation took a bifurcation I didn't expect!