Illustration of cycloid
cycloid
1 of 2noun
cy·cloid ˈsī-ˌklȯid 
: a curve that is generated by a point on the circumference of a circle as it rolls along a straight line
cycloidal
sī-ˈklȯi-dᵊl
adjective cycloid
2 of 2adjective
1
: smooth with concentric lines of growth
cycloid scales
also : having or consisting of cycloid scales
2
: characterized by alternating high and low moods
a cycloid personality
Example Sentences
Recent Examples on the Web
Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 17 May 2020 The solution is a cycloid, which is the curve created by a rolling wheel in a circle. Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 17 May 2020
Noun
The model on display in the Museo Galileo allows one to test this result by building two tracks: one shaped like a cycloid, the other shaped like the arc of a circle, for comparison. Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 17 May 2020 The solution is a cycloid, which is the curve created by a rolling wheel in a circle. Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 17 May 2020 Word History
Etymology
Noun
French cycloïde, from Greek kykloeidēs circular, from kyklos
First Known Use
Noun
1661, in the meaning defined above
Adjective
1847, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Medical Definition
cycloid 1 of 2
noun
cy·cloid ˈsī-ˌklȯid
: a cycloid individual
cycloid
2 of 2adjective
: relating to, having, or being a personality characterized by alternating high and low moods compare cyclothymic