Convolution
/ˌkɒn.vəˈluː.ʃən/noun
A complex twist, coil, or folding; in mathematics, a specific operation combining two functions.
Did you know?Convolution comes from Latin *convolutio*, from *convolvere*—to roll or twist together—so its oldest meaning is physical folding, not abstract complexity.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*wel-
“to turn, roll, or twist”
Latin
Latin
volvere
“to roll, turn, or revolve”
Latin
Latin
convolvere
“to roll or wind together”
Late Latin
Latin
convolutio
“a rolling together; a wrapping or coil”
Middle English
English
convolucioun
“a twisting or folding together”
Modern English
English
convolution
“a twist, coil, or complex folding; later, an intricate complication”