Meaning & Definition
noun
A series of events that are regularly repeated in the same order.
The life cycle of a butterfly includes four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult.
A complete rotation or revolution, especially in reference to a repeating process.
The clock completes one cycle every hour.
A set of events that recur in a predictable pattern.
The economic cycle consists of fluctuations in economic activity over time.
verb
To move through a cycle or series of changes.
The water in the ecosystem cycles through evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.
To ride a bicycle.
She enjoys cycling in the park on weekends.
Etymology
From Greek 'kyklos' meaning 'circle'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
vicious cycle:
A sequence of events that maintains itself and leads to undesirable outcomes.
cycle of life:
The natural series of events in living organisms from birth to death.
cycle through:
To go through a series of states or options repeatedly.
Slang Meanings
Cycle of friends
After high school, I moved away and got disconnected from my old cycle of friends.
On a cycle
She's been on a cycle of working late and sleeping in.