Geometric shape (7) Crossword Clue
Answer: HEXAGON (7 letters)
The answer to the crossword clue "Geometric shape" with 7 letters is "HEXAGON".Hexagon is a geometric shape with six straight sides and six angles, commonly found in both natural and man-made patterns. It is often seen in structures like honeycombs and tiles due to its efficiency in covering space without gaps, making it a strong and balanced form in geometry.
Why "Hexagon" Fits
The clue asks for a single word (7 letters) meaning "geometric shape." The answer, HEXAGON, fits perfectly:
- Geometric shape: Hexagon is a polygon with six sides and six angles — exactly matching the clue's definition as a specific type of geometric shape.
- Direct match: With seven letters, hexagon fits the enumeration precisely.
- Precise meaning: The word identifies a fundamental two-dimensional shape used across mathematics, nature, architecture, and design.
Hexagon is one of the most recognizable and mathematically significant geometric shapes, appearing throughout nature and human design:
Origin and usage:
- Derived from Greek roots: hex- (meaning "six") and -gon (meaning "angle" or "corner").
- The term entered English in the 16th century as a mathematical and geometric descriptor.
- Used across disciplines from pure mathematics to practical engineering and architecture.
Mathematical properties:
- A regular hexagon has all sides of equal length and all interior angles measuring 120 degrees.
- The sum of interior angles in any hexagon is 720 degrees.
- A regular hexagon can be divided into six equilateral triangles from its center.
Natural occurrences:
- Honeycomb cells form hexagons — nature's most efficient packing pattern.
- Basalt columns and certain mineral crystals naturally form hexagonal structures.
- The pattern maximizes internal space while minimizing perimeter.
Examples:
- "The architect designed the building with a hexagonal floor plan."
- "Honeybees construct perfect hexagons in their honeycomb."
- "The shield featured a hexagon at its centre."
In quick crosswords like "Geometric shape (7)," clues often define common mathematical or spatial concepts:
Definition: "Geometric shape" is a straightforward definition pointing to hexagon as a well-known polygon.
Clue type: Simple definition clue — factual and mathematical.
Solving approach:
- Focus on seven-letter shape names (hexagon, octagon, circle, etc.).
- The enumeration (7) eliminates shorter alternatives like square (6) or triangle (8).
- Hexagon is the most common seven-letter geometric term.
Crossword pattern: Shapes and mathematical objects like hexagon, octagon, polygon, and ellipse are frequent crossword answers due to their clarity, universality, and precise definitions.
