flexagon: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very lowTechnical/Recreational mathematics
Quick answer
What does “flexagon” mean?
A flat model made from folded paper or card that can be flexed to reveal hidden faces.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A flat model made from folded paper or card that can be flexed to reveal hidden faces.
A polygon constructed by folding a strip of paper into equilateral triangles or squares, which can be manipulated to show different faces not initially visible, demonstrating topological principles.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling is identical.
Connotations
In both varieties, it connotes a mathematical curiosity, puzzle, or craft project rather than a mainstream object.
Frequency
Extremely rare in general discourse in both regions. Slightly more likely to be encountered in UK/US educational or hobbyist materials related to maths puzzles.
Grammar
How to Use “flexagon” in a Sentence
[to] construct/create/make + a + (adjective) + flexagon[to] fold + a + flexagon + from/of + materiala + (number)-faced + flexagonVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “flexagon” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The flexagon diagram was tricky to follow.
- She showed me a flexagon template from a magazine.
American English
- The flexagon construction is a classic math project.
- He downloaded a flexagon pattern from the internet.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Used in specific contexts within recreational mathematics, topology, or maths education papers.
Everyday
Extremely rare. May be used by hobbyists, origami enthusiasts, or in some educational settings.
Technical
The primary domain. Used precisely to describe a specific class of folded paper models with hidden faces.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “flexagon”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “flexagon”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “flexagon”
- Confusing it with a general flexible object or a polygon made of flexible material. Using it as a verb (e.g., 'to flexagon').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is related to origami but is a specific subclass focused on creating polygons with multiple hidden faces through folding, often associated with mathematical exploration rather than just artistic folding.
The hexaflexagon was discovered in 1939 by British student Arthur H. Stone while studying at Princeton University in the US.
The trihexaflexagon, made from a strip of paper folded into ten equilateral triangles, is the classic and most well-known type.
They are primarily made by hand from templates, but pre-printed kits or templates are available from educational or puzzle suppliers.
A flat model made from folded paper or card that can be flexed to reveal hidden faces.
Flexagon is usually technical/recreational mathematics in register.
Flexagon: in British English it is pronounced /ˈflɛk.sə.ɡən/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈflɛk.sə.ɡɑːn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: FLEX your paper AGON (like 'polygon') to see new sides.
Conceptual Metaphor
A SHAPE WITH SECRETS (the hidden faces represent concealed aspects).
Practice
Quiz
A 'flexagon' is primarily: