vertex
UK: ˈvɜːtɛks | US: ˈvɜːrtɛks
n. the highest point; the top or apex of something
n. (geometry) the point where two or more lines or edges meet to form an angle
n. (anatomy) the crown of the head
vertex = vert<turn> + ex<noun suffix>
- vert (from Latin vertere, meaning "to turn")
- ex (a Latin-derived suffix indicating a noun form)
Etymology Origin:
The word vertex originates from Latin vertex (plural vertices), meaning "whirl, whirlpool, top of the head, summit." It derives from vertere ("to turn"), reflecting the idea of a turning point or peak. In geometry, it evolved to denote the meeting point of lines, emphasizing the concept of convergence. The anatomical sense ("crown of the head") also stems from the notion of the body's "highest" turning point.
The hikers finally reached the vertex of the mountain after a grueling climb.
In a triangle, the vertex is the point where two sides intersect.
The vertex of the parabola indicates its maximum or minimum value.
The artist carefully sketched the vertex of the pyramid in his drawing.
A bald spot appeared at the vertex of his head as he aged.