Cuboctahedron

/ˌkjuːboʊɒkˈteɪhɪdrən/ noun

Definition

A three-dimensional geometric shape with 14 faces—8 triangular faces and 6 square faces—existing in both nature and mathematics.

Etymology

From cubo- (cube) + octahedron (eight-faced polyhedron). Compound of two geometric terms creating a shape that's geometrically between cubes and octahedra.

Kelly Says

The cuboctahedron appears in crystal structures and virus shells—it's the geometric sweet spot that nature keeps rediscovering because its shape maximizes strength while minimizing material!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.