Lesson 15: The Shapes of Things

Let's start our journey by looking at words that revolve around the idea of 'around,' all thanks to the Latin root CIRCUM.

Key Words

📝Example Usage:

• The cabdriver took them on a circuitous route to the police station.
• Being circumspect, the security guard carefully checked every corner of the building before locking up for the night.
• The island is 3.5 km in circumference.

Next, let's explore words that deal with spheres and paths, all stemming from the Latin roots ORBIS and ORBITA, meaning 'circle' or 'wheel.'

Key Words

📝Example Usage:

• Since moving to the new city, the orbit of his friends has expanded significantly, bringing new experiences and opportunities.
• The fantasy novel described the magical artifact as a glowing blue orb that pulsed with ancient power.

Now for words that give shape to our ideas. These terms come from the Latin root FIGURA, which means 'form' or 'shape.'

Key Words

📝Example Usage:

• The interior designer changed the configuration of the furniture in the living room to create a more open and welcoming space.
• When the coach said the team was 'on fire,' he was using figurative language to describe their amazing performance.

Finally, let's circle back to where we started with another root for 'circle' or 'wheel,' this time from the Greek KUKLOS.

Key Words

📝Example Usage:

• The changing of the seasons is a cyclic process that repeats every year, from spring to winter and back again.
• My grandfather has an encyclopedic knowledge of World War II history and can recall specific dates, names, and battles with incredible detail.