anhedral
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: //ænˈhɛdəl//
KK: /ænˈhɛdəl/
adjective
Definition
Describing a crystal that does not have distinct, sharp faces or angles.
Example
The mineral was classified as anhedral due to its lack of defined crystal faces.
Conversation
Did you see the new sculptures at the gallery?
Yeah, I did! Some of them looked really anhedral to me.
I thought so too! It's interesting how some art can lack those sharp edges.
Exactly! It gives a different vibe, doesn't it?
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
blunt
dull
flat
Antonyms
sharp
pointed
angular
noun
Definition
The downward angle of an aircraft's wing, which can affect its lift and performance.
Example
The anhedral design of the wings helps improve the aircraft's stability during flight.
Conversation
I was reading about aircraft design, and I came across the term anhedral.
Oh, I've heard that before! It's about the wing shape, right?
Exactly! It refers to the downward slope of the wings.
Root Explanation
Anhedral is formed from "an-" (meaning without) and "hedra" (from Greek "hedra", meaning face or base). The word describes a shape that lacks a defined face or surface, particularly in the context of crystal forms.
Memory Tip
Think of 'without' ('an-') a 'face' ('hedra') to remember that anhedral refers to a shape that does not have defined surfaces.
Visually Confused Words
antheral
cathedral