Epicycle
noun
A small circle whose center moves around the circumference of a larger one, especially in historical models of the cosmos.
The planets were believed to move in epicycles around the Earth in ancient astronomy.
Often appears as...
- epicycle of a planet
- epicycle concept
Usage tips
Neutral
circular motion, celestial mechanics, ancient astronomy
noun
In theory, an epicycle can refer to any periodic or cyclical process or phenomenon.
The project seemed to undergo an epicycle of challenges, repeating many of the same issues.
Often appears as...
- social epicycle
- process epicycle
Usage tips
Neutral
cyclical nature, repeating cycle, iterative process
noun
A small circle whose center moves around the circumference of a larger one, especially in historical models of the cosmos.
The planets were believed to move in epicycles around the Earth in ancient astronomy.
Often appears as...
- epicycle of a planet
- epicycle concept
Usage tips
Neutral
circular motion, celestial mechanics, ancient astronomy
noun
In theory, an epicycle can refer to any periodic or cyclical process or phenomenon.
The project seemed to undergo an epicycle of challenges, repeating many of the same issues.
Often appears as...
- social epicycle
- process epicycle
Usage tips
Neutral
cyclical nature, repeating cycle, iterative process
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Historical Context
Understanding that epicycles represent historical beliefs in astronomy can provide insight into how scientific thought has evolved.
Ancient astronomers used epicycles to explain the motion of planets.
Pro Tip 2/3Mathematical Models
Recognizing that epicycles can represent concepts in mathematics helps in grasping complex system behaviors.
In mathematics, functions can demonstrate epicyclic behaviors through variations.
Pro Tip 3/3Figurative Use
Using 'epicycle' metaphorically can illustrate complicated ideas or situations in modern discussions.
The company’s strategies seemed like an epicycle, repeatedly circling around the root issue.
Pro Tip 1/3Historical Context
Understanding that epicycles represent historical beliefs in astronomy can provide insight into how scientific thought has evolved.
Ancient astronomers used epicycles to explain the motion of planets.
Pro Tip 2/3Mathematical Models
Recognizing that epicycles can represent concepts in mathematics helps in grasping complex system behaviors.
In mathematics, functions can demonstrate epicyclic behaviors through variations.
Pro Tip 3/3Figurative Use
Using 'epicycle' metaphorically can illustrate complicated ideas or situations in modern discussions.
The company’s strategies seemed like an epicycle, repeatedly circling around the root issue.
Pro Tip 1/3Historical Context
Understanding that epicycles represent historical beliefs in astronomy can provide insight into how scientific thought has evolved.
Ancient astronomers used epicycles to explain the motion of planets.
Pro Tip 2/3Mathematical Models
Recognizing that epicycles can represent concepts in mathematics helps in grasping complex system behaviors.
In mathematics, functions can demonstrate epicyclic behaviors through variations.
Pro Tip 3/3Figurative Use
Using 'epicycle' metaphorically can illustrate complicated ideas or situations in modern discussions.
The company’s strategies seemed like an epicycle, repeatedly circling around the root issue.
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