Polygon
/ˈpɒl.ɪ.ɡɒn/noun
A plane figure with at least three straight sides and angles, and typically five or more.
Did you know?In ancient Greek philosophy, polygons were believed to embody the perfection of geometric forms, linking them to the divine structure of the universe.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
πολύγωνον
“A figure with many angles.”
Middle Ages
Latin
polygonum
“Derived from Greek, used in medieval texts on geometry.”
16th Century
English
polygon
“Adopted from Latin, referring to multi-sided geometric figures.”
Modern English
English
polygon
“Common term in mathematics for any shape with multiple straight sides.”