Advertisement
Advertisement
involute
[ adjective noun in-vuh-loot; verb in-vuh-loot, in-vuh-loot ]
adjective
- intricate; complex.
- curled or curved inward or spirally.
- Botany. rolled inward from the edge, as a leaf.
- Zoology. (of shells) having the whorls closely wound.
noun
- Geometry. any curve of which a given curve is the evolute.
verb (used without object)
- to roll or curl up; become involute.
- to return to a normal shape, size, or state.
involute
adjective
- complex, intricate, or involved
- botany (esp of petals, leaves, etc, in bud) having margins that are rolled inwards
- (of certain shells) closely coiled so that the axis is obscured
noun
verb
- intr to become involute
Discover More
Derived Forms
- ˈinvoˌlutely, adverb
- ˌinvoˈlutedly, adverb
Discover More
Other Words From
- invo·lutely adverb
- sub·invo·lute adjective
Discover More
Word History and Origins
Discover More
Word History and Origins
Origin of involute1
Discover More
Example Sentences
These names are given to the curves because the end of a stretched thread unwound from the evolute will describe the involute.
In the Balm of Gilead, the leaf is involute, rolled towards the midrib on the upper face.
The leaves are rolled towards the midrib on the upper face (involute).
Involute teeth have the advantage that they roll on one another instead of sliding.
Leaves involute, the throat usually bearded, and sheaths often enclosing the panicles.
Advertisement
Word of the Day
[tawr-choo-uhs ]
Meaning and examplesStart each day with the Word of the Day in your inbox!
By clicking "Sign Up", you are accepting Dictionary.com Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policies.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Browse