convolution

/,kɔnvə'lu:ʃn/

Thân thiện

A child watches the colorful convolution of a spinning top.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A complex, intricate, or coiled shape or structure: A "convolution" is a form that is twisted, coiled, or folded in a complex manner.
   • A fold or ridge on the surface of the brain: In anatomy, a "convolution" refers specifically to one of the elevated, folded ridges on the cerebral cortex.
   • A complex or intricate process or sequence of events: Figuratively, "convolution" can describe a series of events or a procedure that is complicated and difficult to follow.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The artist drew the beautiful convolution of a seashell. (The artist drew the beautiful, coiled shape of a seashell.)
  • The brain's surface is marked by numerous convolutions, which increase its surface area. (The brain's surface is marked by numerous folds, which increase its surface area.)
  • The legal case was full of procedural convolutions that delayed the verdict. (The legal case was full of procedural complexities that delayed the verdict.)

Advanced Usage

• Mathematical Convolution: In mathematics and engineering, "convolution" is a specific operation on two functions to produce a third function, expressing how the shape of one is modified by the other.
  • The image filter uses a convolution to blur the picture. (The image filter uses a convolution operation to blur the picture.)

Variants and Related Words

• Convolute (verb): To twist, coil, or wind into a complex shape.
  • The vine convoluted itself around the fence post. (The vine twisted itself around the fence post.)
• Convoluted (adjective): Extremely complex and difficult to follow; coiled.
  • The plot of the novel was so convoluted that I got lost. (The plot of the novel was so complex that I got lost.)
  • They found a convoluted seashell on the beach. (They found a coiled seashell on the beach.)

Synonyms

• Coil: A length of something wound in a joined sequence of loops.
• Twist: An act of turning something so that it moves in a spiral.
• Complexity: The state or quality of being intricate or complicated.

Related Phrases

• A convolution of...: A phrase used to describe a complex mass or series of something.
  • The story was a convolution of lies and half-truths. (The story was a complex mixture of lies and half-truths.)

Học thuật

Noun

1. the action of coiling or twisting or winding together
2. a convex fold or elevation in the surface of the brain
3. the shape of something rotating rapidly

Từ đồng nghĩa

• gyrus
• whirl
• swirl
• vortex