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diameter

noun

/daɪˈæm ɪ tər/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of diameter

A straight line segment that passes through the center of a circular shape or object, connecting two points on the circumference and dividing it into two equal halves.
"The carpenter measured the diameter of the wooden log before cutting it into sections."

Detailed meaning of diameter

It represents the longest distance across a circle or any other symmetrical round figure. The diameter is twice the length of the radius, a line segment that connects the center of the circle to any point on its circumference. It serves as a fundamental measurement in geometry, providing essential information about the size, proportions, and relationships within circular objects. The diameter plays a crucial role in various calculations, such as finding the circumference, area, or volume of a circle. Beyond circles, the term can also apply to other symmetric shapes, such as spheres, cylinders, or cones, where it represents the longest distance across the cross-section. Understanding the diameter is essential for analyzing, designing, and comprehending the properties and dimensions of circular or symmetrical objects in diverse fields, including mathematics, engineering, and architecture.

Example sentences containing diameter

1. The diameter of the circle was precisely measured to be 10 centimeters.
2. The engineer calculated the diameter of the pipe to ensure proper water flow.
3. The telescope's objective lens had a diameter of 150 millimeters.
4. The company manufactures various sizes of steel rods, ranging from 2 to 8 millimeters in diameter.
5. The tire's diameter was crucial in determining its compatibility with the vehicle.
6. The diameter of the tree trunk was so large that it took three people to encircle it.

History and etymology of diameter

The noun 'diameter' originates from ancient Greek. It is a combination of two Greek words: 'dia,' meaning 'through,' and 'metron,' meaning 'measure.' In its original Greek form, 'diameter' was 'diametros,' and it referred to a straight line that passes through the center of a circle, effectively measuring the width of the circle by going through it. This concept of measuring through the center and dividing a circle into two equal halves was fundamental to geometry and mathematics in ancient Greece. As the study of geometry and mathematics spread to other cultures and languages, the term 'diameter' was adopted and retained its core meaning of a straight line segment that connects two points on the circumference of a circular shape or object, passing through its center and effectively dividing it into two equal halves. Thus, the etymology of 'diameter' underscores its historical connection to the fundamental geometric concept of measurement and symmetry in circles.

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Further usage examples of diameter

1. The jewelry store displayed a necklace with a pendant featuring a diamond of significant diameter.
2. The plumber recommended a pipe with a larger diameter to improve water pressure.
3. The architect sketched a blueprint with precise measurements, including the diameter of each column.
4. The meteorite had a diameter of 1 meter and left a massive impact crater upon impact.
5. The baker used a ruler to measure the diameter of the cake pans for consistent results.
6. The engineer designed a bridge with a span diameter of 100 meters to accommodate heavy traffic.
7. The artist carefully sculpted a marble sphere with a diameter of 30 centimeters.
8. The biology textbook explained the importance of cell diameter in cellular functions.
9. The hula hoop had a diameter of 90 centimeters, perfect for children's play.
10. The balloon expanded to a diameter of 50 centimeters when fully inflated.
11. The jewelry designer crafted earrings with pearls of varying diameters for an elegant look.
12. The chef rolled out the dough and cut it into circles with a diameter of 10 centimeters for perfectly sized cookies.
13. The engineer used a laser device to measure the diameter of the tunnel to ensure precise construction.
14. The astronomer discovered a new exoplanet with a diameter comparable to that of Earth.