# octagon

/ˈɑktəˌɡɑn/ (US) · /ˈɒktəɡən/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/octagon
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a shape with eight straight sides and eight corners. It looks like a stop sign or a round table with eight legs.

For teachers: a polygon with eight sides and eight angles. Often used to describe architectural or traffic-related structures.

## Examples

- The stop sign is an octagon.
- The architect designed the building with an octagon at the center to maximize the amount of natural light.
- The ancient temple features a central octagon surrounded by smaller rooms, creating a unique visual symmetry that reflects the cultural significance of the number eight.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.