angulate: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal / Technical
Quick answer
What does “angulate” mean?
Having angles or corners.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Having angles or corners; forming an angle.
In biology, to describe an object (like a leaf or insect wing) with a series of distinct bends or angles. As a verb, to make or become angular.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in usage or meaning.
Connotations
Purely descriptive, technical term in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally rare in both UK and US English, confined to specialised fields.
Grammar
How to Use “angulate” in a Sentence
ADJ: The leaf is ~.VERB (rare): The rock strata ~ sharply at this point.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “angulate” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The path angulates around the ancient oak tree.
- Fault lines can angulate under immense pressure.
American English
- The trail angulates sharply to avoid the marsh.
- The metal will angulate if heated and bent.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Used in biological sciences, geology, and some engineering contexts to describe angular shapes.
Everyday
Extremely rare; 'angular' is the common term.
Technical
The primary domain of use, especially in descriptive taxonomy and morphology.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “angulate”
- Using 'angulate' in everyday speech instead of 'angular'.
- Using it as a verb where 'bend' or 'angle' would be more natural.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a rare, technical word. 'Angular' is the common equivalent.
Yes, but this usage is very rare and often considered non-standard or overly technical. 'To angle' or 'to bend' are preferable in most contexts.
Both mean 'having angles'. 'Angular' is the general, widely used adjective. 'Angulate' is more specific and formal, often used in scientific classification and description.
Primarily in biology (botany, entomology, zoology), geology, and occasionally in engineering or architecture when describing precise angular forms.
Having angles or corners.
Angulate is usually formal / technical in register.
Angulate: in British English it is pronounced /ˈæŋɡjʊleɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈæŋɡjəˌleɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'ANGLE' + '-ate' = to have angles.
Conceptual Metaphor
SHAPE AS GEOMETRY.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'angulate' most appropriately used?