convolve: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low frequency (C2)Technical, formal, academic
Quick answer
What does “convolve” mean?
To combine two mathematical functions (or sets of data) to produce a third function that expresses how the shape of one is modified by the other.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To combine two mathematical functions (or sets of data) to produce a third function that expresses how the shape of one is modified by the other; to roll, coil, or twist together.
To intricately blend, intertwine, or merge things (like ideas, sounds, or narratives) in a complex manner that makes the original components difficult to separate.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling and pronunciation are the primary points of divergence.
Connotations
Purely technical and neutral in both varieties. No additional connotative baggage.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in general language but standard and expected within its specific technical domains in both the UK and US.
Grammar
How to Use “convolve” in a Sentence
convolve A with Bconvolve A and Bconvolve (transitive, requiring a direct object)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “convolve” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- To reduce noise, you must convolve the raw data with a smoothing function.
- The algorithm is designed to convolve the two matrices efficiently.
American English
- You need to convolve the audio signal with the impulse response.
- The software will convolve the source image with the selected filter kernel.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used, except in highly specialised tech companies dealing with signal processing or data science.
Academic
Core terminology in mathematics (especially functional analysis), engineering (signal/image processing), physics, and computer science (neural networks).
Everyday
Extremely rare. Would likely be misunderstood or perceived as an error for 'involve' or 'convoluted'.
Technical
The primary register. Used with precision to describe a fundamental integral transform operation.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “convolve”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “convolve”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “convolve”
- Using 'convolve' intransitively (e.g., 'The functions convolve').
- Confusing it with 'convoluted' (adj.) and saying 'a convolve explanation'.
- Misspelling as 'convolute' (which is a related but distinct verb).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, they share the Latin root 'convolvere' (to roll together). 'Convoluted' describes something intricately folded, twisted, or complicated, which is the figurative result of a 'convolving' process.
It is not advisable. In everyday contexts, it will sound overly technical, archaic, or be mistaken for 'involve'. Use simpler verbs like 'mix', 'combine', or 'blend' instead.
The primary noun is 'convolution'. The act or result of convolving is a 'convolution'.
While both are integral operations, convolution involves flipping one function before sliding and integrating, measuring the overlap as one function is reversed. Correlation does not flip the function, measuring similarity without reversal. They answer different questions in signal analysis.
To combine two mathematical functions (or sets of data) to produce a third function that expresses how the shape of one is modified by the other.
Convolve is usually technical, formal, academic in register.
Convolve: in British English it is pronounced /kənˈvɒlv/, and in American English it is pronounced /kənˈvɑːlv/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of CONVOLVE as a CON-volved VOlVE: in a car engine (valves), complex systems work together (con-) in a rolled-up, intertwined way.
Conceptual Metaphor
MATHEMATICAL OPERATIONS ARE WEAVING / BLENDING.
Practice
Quiz
In which field is the verb 'to convolve' most precisely and frequently used?