Epicyclic

/ˌɛpɪˈsɪklɪk/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or involving epicycles, or describing a curve traced by a point on a circle rolling around another circle.

Etymology

Derived from 'epicycle' with the adjectival suffix '-ic'. Used in both historical astronomy and modern mathematics to describe cyclical motion patterns.

Kelly Says

The patterns traced by epicyclic motion are mesmerizing—they create fancy flower-like shapes called epitrochoids, and these same patterns show up in gear systems and even in some ancient decorative art!

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