hexagram: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowTechnical, Academic, Esoteric
Quick answer
What does “hexagram” mean?
A six-pointed star figure formed by extending the sides of a regular hexagon.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A six-pointed star figure formed by extending the sides of a regular hexagon.
1. In geometry, a six-pointed star polygon composed of two overlapping equilateral triangles. 2. In divination, particularly the I Ching, a figure composed of six stacked horizontal lines (solid or broken) representing a specific state or principle.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. Pronunciation differs slightly.
Connotations
Neutral in both regions. The geometric term is standard; the I Ching association carries the same cultural/spiritual connotations.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both regions, appearing primarily in specialized texts on geometry, symbolism, or Eastern philosophy.
Grammar
How to Use “hexagram” in a Sentence
The hexagram [verb: represents/symbolises/consists of]...A hexagram [noun: figure/symbol/diagram] of...To cast/consult the hexagram for...Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “hexagram” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The system does not verb the concept; it is solely a noun.
American English
- No verb form exists for 'hexagram'.
adverb
British English
- No adverbial form.
American English
- Not applicable.
adjective
British English
- No standard adjectival form. Use 'hexagrammatic' in technical writing.
American English
- The design was hexagram-based.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Potentially used metaphorically in branding or design discussions ('The logo features a stylised hexagram').
Academic
Common in relevant fields: Mathematics (geometry), Religious Studies (symbolism, I Ching), History of Art.
Everyday
Very rare. Unlikely to be used unless discussing specific topics like geometry, the I Ching, or religious symbols.
Technical
Standard term in geometry for the specific star polygon. Standard term in sinology/divination studies for I Ching figures.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “hexagram”
- Confusing 'hexagram' (6-pointed) with 'pentagram' (5-pointed).
- Using it generically for any star shape.
- Misspelling as 'hexigram'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
The Star of David (Magen David) is a specific type of hexagram with profound cultural and religious significance in Judaism. While all Stars of David are hexagrams, not all hexagrams (e.g., geometric figures or I Ching symbols) are Stars of David.
No, 'hexagram' is exclusively a noun. You cannot 'hexagram' something. For the action related to the I Ching, you 'cast' or 'consult' a hexagram.
A hexagon is a flat shape with six straight sides. A hexagram is a six-pointed star shape, typically formed by superimposing two equilateral triangles or by extending the lines of a hexagon.
There are 64 possible I Ching hexagrams, as each of the six lines in the figure can be either solid (yang) or broken (yin), resulting in 2^6 (64) unique combinations.
A six-pointed star figure formed by extending the sides of a regular hexagon.
Hexagram is usually technical, academic, esoteric in register.
Hexagram: in British English it is pronounced /ˈhɛksəɡræm/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈhɛksəˌɡræm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “To cast the hexagrams (consult the I Ching)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
HEXagram has SIX points (hex- means six, like in hexagon).
Conceptual Metaphor
BALANCE / INTERSECTION (from the two interlocking triangles representing opposing forces like yin/yang or heaven/earth).
Practice
Quiz
What is the most common, non-geometric context for the word 'hexagram'?