noun
cycloid
SY-kloyd
Cycloid (noun) means the curve traced by a point on the rim of a circle as the circle rolls along a straight line without slipping. Example: “The valve on the wheel traces a cycloid as the bicycle rolls forward.”
noun
1
technical The curve traced by a point on the rim of a circle as the circle rolls along a straight line without slipping.
"The valve on the wheel traces a cycloid as the bicycle rolls forward."
"Our geometry class plotted a cycloid on graph paper."
"A cycloid looks like a series of arches standing side by side."
adjective
1
technical Describing fish scales that are thin and rounded with smooth edges.
"Carp have cycloid scales that feel smooth to the touch."
"The biologist pointed out the cycloid scales under the microscope."
"Many familiar freshwater fish have cycloid scales."
How to use cycloid
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe arched curve a point on a rolling wheel's rim draws.
When to use it
It is a technical term, used mainly in mathematics and in describing fish.
Memory tip
Think of a dot on a bicycle tire: the path it traces is a cycloid.
Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
cycloid curve
cycloid scales
path of a cycloid
draw a cycloid
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Fill the gap
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The valve on the wheel traces a _____ as the bicycle rolls forward.
Etymology
The word is formed in English from the combining form cyclo- and the suffix -oid.
Rhymes for cycloid
See all rhymes for cycloid →Frequently asked questions
What is a cycloid in math?
A cycloid is the curve traced by a point on the edge of a circle as the circle rolls along a straight line without slipping.
What are cycloid scales?
Cycloid scales are thin, rounded fish scales with smooth edges.
How do you pronounce cycloid?
It is pronounced SY-kloyd, with the stress on the first syllable.
What is the meaning of cycloid?
"cycloid" (noun) means the curve traced by a point on the rim of a circle as the circle rolls along a straight line without slipping.
