noun

fractal

FRAK-tuhl

Fractal (noun) means a complex geometric shape whose pattern repeats at every scale, so zooming in reveals the same kind of structure again and again. Example: “The fern's leaves are a natural example of a fractal.”

noun

A complex geometric shape whose pattern repeats at every scale, so zooming in reveals the same kind of structure again and again.

"The fern's leaves are a natural example of a fractal."

"The software generated a colorful fractal from a simple equation."

adjective

Having a self-repeating pattern at every level of magnification.

"Coastlines have a fractal quality — jagged at every scale you look."

How to use fractal

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA shape made of the same repeating pattern no matter how far you zoom in.

Common pairings

fractal pattern fractal geometry fractal image

Word forms

fractals plural

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.

Test yourself on “fractal” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The fern's leaves are a natural example of a _____.

Etymology

Coined from Latin fractus ("broken"), the past participle of frangere ("to break").

Origin: Latin

Frequently asked questions

What does “fractal” mean?

The word “fractal” means a complex geometric shape whose pattern repeats at every scale, so zooming in reveals the same kind of structure again and again. In plain terms, a shape made of the same repeating pattern no matter how far you zoom in.

How do you pronounce “fractal”?

“Fractal” is pronounced FRAK-tuhl (/ˈfɹæk.təl/ in IPA).

How do you use “fractal” in a sentence?

Here is “fractal” used in a sentence: “The fern's leaves are a natural example of a fractal.”

What part of speech is “fractal”?

Depending on how it is used, “fractal” can be a noun and an adjective.

Where does the word “fractal” come from?

The word “fractal” comes from Latin. Coined from Latin fractus ("broken"), the past participle of frangere ("to break").

How many meanings does “fractal” have?

“Fractal” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a complex geometric shape whose pattern repeats at every scale, so zooming in reveals the same kind of structure again and again.