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REFERENCE

geometry

n.
US //dʒiˈɑmətɹi// UK //dʒiˈɒmətɹˌi// ge·om·e·try
  1. 1 mathematical study (n.)
    B1 Intermediate Math

    the area of math that deals with points, lines, angles, and shapes.

    the branch of mathematics that investigates the properties, measurement, and relationships of points, lines, angles, surfaces, and solids.

    Example

    In our geometry class today, we learned how to calculate the area of a circle.

    Example

    Euclidean geometry remains the foundation of most secondary school mathematics curricula, providing a rigorous introduction to logical proofs and spatial reasoning.

    Usage

    Uncountable when referring to the academic subject.
  2. 2 physical shape or arrangement (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Technical Science

    the specific shape or arrangement of the parts of something.

    the physical shape, configuration, or spatial arrangement of the parts of an object or system.

    Example

    The geometry of the new bike frame makes it much easier to ride uphill.

    Example

    The unique geometry of the aircraft's wings allows it to maintain stability even when flying at extremely high speeds through turbulent air.

    Usage

    Often used in singular form to describe a specific design.
  3. 3 a specific mathematical system (n.)
    C1 Advanced Academic Technical Math

    a particular type of math system used to describe space, such as one that works on a curved surface.

    a specific mathematical system or set of axioms that defines spatial relationships, often distinguished from Euclidean principles.

    Example

    Scientists use a different geometry to explain how gravity works in deep space.

    Example

    The discovery of non-Euclidean geometries in the nineteenth century fundamentally altered our understanding of the physical universe and the nature of mathematical truth.

    Usage

    Countable in this sense.
    • mathematical system
Origin

From Middle English gemetry, geometrie, from Old French geometrie (modern French géométrie), from Latin geōmetria, from Ancient Greek γεωμετρία (geōmetría, “geometry, land-survey”), from γεωμέτρης (geōmétrēs, “geometer, land measurer”), from γῆ (gê, “earth, land, country”) + -μετρία (-metría, “measurement”), from μέτρον (métron, “a measure”). By surface analysis, geometer + -y or geo- + -metry. Doublet of gematria.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Related words

Last updated June 20, 2026