Logo
dictionary thesaurus

epicycle

noun
epi·​cy·​cle | \ ˈe-pə-ˌsī-kəl How to pronounce epicycle (audio) \

Definition of epicycle

1 in Ptolemaic astronomy : a circle in which a planet moves and which has a center that is itself carried around at the same time on the circumference of a larger circle
2 : a process going on within a larger one
Other Words from epicycle Example Sentences Learn More about epicycle

Keep scrolling for more

Other Words from epicycle

epicyclic \ ˌe-​pə-​ˈsī-​klik How to pronounce epicyclic (audio) , -​ˈsi-​klik \ adjective

Examples of epicycle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

 In order to reconcile circular orbits with actual planetary behavior, Copernicus continued the tradition, developed by Ptolemy, of arguing that planets spin on wheels, known as epicycles. — National Geographic, "Copernicus's revolutionary ideas reorganized the heavens," 9 Apr. 2019

First Known Use of epicycle

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

History and Etymology for epicycle

Middle English epicicle, from Late Latin epicyclus, from Greek epikyklos, from epi- + kyklos circle — more at wheel

Keep scrolling for more

WORD OF THE DAY

apologia

play

See Definitions and Examples

Get Word of the Day daily email!