Illustration of cycloid
cy·cloid
ˈsī-ˌklȯid 
: a curve that is generated by a point on the circumference of a circle as it rolls along a straight line
1
: smooth with concentric lines of growth
cycloid scales
also
: having or consisting of cycloid scales
2
: characterized by alternating high and low moods
a cycloid personality
Examples of cycloid in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Irene Wright, Miami Herald, 12 Feb. 2025
The model on display in the Museo Galileo allows one to test this result by building two tracks: one shaped like a cycloid, the other shaped like the arc of a circle, for comparison.
—Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 17 May 2020
The solution is a cycloid, which is the curve created by a rolling wheel in a circle.
—Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 17 May 2020
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Noun
The fish has a scaleless head with small, cycloid scales on the body and belly, according to the study.
—Irene Wright, Miami Herald, 12 Feb. 2025
The model on display in the Museo Galileo allows one to test this result by building two tracks: one shaped like a cycloid, the other shaped like the arc of a circle, for comparison.
—Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 17 May 2020
The solution is a cycloid, which is the curve created by a rolling wheel in a circle.
—Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 17 May 2020
Cite this Entry
“Cycloid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cycloid. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
cycloid
1 of 2 noun
cy·cloid
ˈsī-ˌklȯid
: a cycloid individual
cycloid
2 of 2 adjective
: relating to, having, or being a personality characterized by alternating high and low moods compare cyclothymic
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