tessellate: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowTechnical/Formal
Quick answer
What does “tessellate” mean?
To cover a flat surface completely with repeated geometric shapes, typically squares or other polygons, without gaps or overlaps.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To cover a flat surface completely with repeated geometric shapes, typically squares or other polygons, without gaps or overlaps.
To form a pattern of repeating shapes; in computing, to break down a complex image or processing task into smaller, identical, interlocking units for efficient handling; metaphorically, to fit together neatly and efficiently like a puzzle.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Virtually no difference in usage or spelling. 'Tessellate' and 'tessellated' are the standard forms. 'Tessellation' is the noun.
Connotations
Identical in both varieties; strongly associated with mathematics (geometry), art (M.C. Escher), and computing/graphics.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both UK and US English, used primarily in academic, artistic, and technical contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “tessellate” in a Sentence
[surface] tessellates with [shape][shape] tessellates [surface][surface] is tessellated with [shape]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “tessellate” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- Only regular hexagons, squares, and equilateral triangles can tessellate a plane perfectly.
- The artist sought to tessellate the courtyard using irregular pentagonal tiles.
American English
- The graphics card uses a special processor to tessellate complex 3D models in real time.
- Can these ceramic pieces tessellate, or will there be gaps?
adverb
British English
- The tiles were laid tessellately, forming a continuous pattern.
American English
- The polygons fit together tessellately, covering the entire UV map.
adjective
British English
- The Victorian hallway featured a stunning tessellated pavement.
- She admired the tessellated effect of the honeycomb.
American English
- The game engine creates a tessellated water surface for enhanced realism.
- The tessellated design on the floor was a hallmark of Roman architecture.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Could be used metaphorically: 'Our regional offices tessellate to cover the entire market.'
Academic
Common in mathematics, geometry, art history, and computer graphics. 'Only three regular polygons can tessellate the Euclidean plane.'
Everyday
Very rare. Might be used in DIY or art contexts: 'We chose a tessellated tile pattern for the bathroom.'
Technical
Common in computer graphics (tessellation shaders), game design, and computational geometry to describe breaking surfaces into polygons.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “tessellate”
- Confusing with 'telescope'. Using it as a general synonym for 'decorate'. Incorrect spelling: 'tesselate' (one 's', two 'l's).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Primarily, yes, in its strict geometric sense. However, in computer graphics (3D modelling), it refers to subdividing the surface of a 3D object into smaller polygons.
'Tile' is the most general and everyday term. 'Tessellate' is the precise mathematical/technical verb for creating a tiled pattern without gaps. 'Mosaic' implies an artistic picture or pattern made from small coloured pieces, which may or may not tessellate perfectly.
In computer graphics, tessellation is a process where a simple 3D model's surface is divided into many smaller polygons (triangles/quads) to add geometric detail, making curves and surfaces appear smoother.
No, in strict geometry, circles cannot tessellate a plane because they cannot fit together without leaving gaps. They can, however, be arranged in a pattern that covers a surface, but it's not a true tessellation.
To cover a flat surface completely with repeated geometric shapes, typically squares or other polygons, without gaps or overlaps.
Tessellate is usually technical/formal in register.
Tessellate: in British English it is pronounced /ˈtes.ɪ.leɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈtes.ə.leɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “No common idioms. The word itself is used descriptively.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a TESla car's solar roof made of many small, interlocking SOLar panELLATES that TESSELLATE the surface.
Conceptual Metaphor
INTERLOCKING UNITS CREATE A SEAMLESS WHOLE (like a well-organised team, a puzzle, or a mosaic).
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following best describes the primary meaning of 'tessellate'?