convolution

[ kon-vuh-loo-shuhn ]

noun

1. a rolled up or coiled condition.
2. a rolling or coiling together.
3. a turn of anything coiled; whorl.

   Synonyms: sinuosity, winding, twist

4. Anatomy. one of the sinuous folds or ridges of the surface of the brain.

convolution

/ ˌkɒnvəˈluːʃən /

noun

1. a twisting together; a turn, twist, or coil
2. an intricate, involved, or confused matter or condition
3. Also calledgyrus any of the numerous convex folds or ridges of the surface of the brain

Derived Forms

• ˌconvoˈlutional, adjective

Other Words From

• convo·lution·al con·vo·lu·tion·ar·y [kon-v, uh, -, loo, -sh, uh, -ner-ee], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of convolution¹

1535–45; < Latin convolūt- ( convolute ) + -ion

Example Sentences

The researchers applied this approach by using a convolution imaging model to generate a large number of high- and low-quality image pairs.

From Science Daily

"The plot convolutions are forced, the gags can feel generic, yet the playing is always energised but focused, and the exchanges sometimes fizz."

From BBC

But never fear: After some pointless convolutions, all three women do eventually go to Lourdes, as does Chrissie, for reasons never clear.

From Los Angeles Times

That’s fitting enough; you’re meant to feel the noose tighten around each character’s neck in turn, though sometimes the tension slackens and the story threatens to collapse under the weight of its many convolutions.

From Los Angeles Times

And so the strength I pray for and the freedom I seek bear convolutions heretofore unaddressed, make me the radical’s radical, inspire a sacrifice so deep it rattles the old bones and the old stones.

From New York Times