Definition

Describing something that has a shape similar to an S-curve, often used in mathematics and biology.

Example

The growth of the population followed a sigmoidal pattern, indicating a slow start, rapid growth, and then a plateau.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a sigmoidal growth curve?

Yeah, I think it’s used a lot in biology, right?

Exactly! It describes how populations grow in an S-shaped pattern.

That makes sense, especially when resources are limited.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Sigmoidal is derived from "sigma" (from Greek "σῖγμα", meaning the letter S) and the suffix "-oidal" (meaning resembling or having the shape of). The term describes a curve that resembles the shape of the letter S, hence the name sigmoidal.

Memory Tip

Imagine the letter 'S' (from 'sigma') to remember that 'sigmoidal' refers to something that has the shape of an 'S'.

Visually Confused Words