topology: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Technical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “topology” mean?
The study of geometric properties that remain unchanged under continuous deformation (such as stretching, bending, or twisting) without tearing or gluing.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The study of geometric properties that remain unchanged under continuous deformation (such as stretching, bending, or twisting) without tearing or gluing.
In computing, it refers to the arrangement of elements (e.g., nodes, links) in a network, such as a computer network, circuit, or organizational structure.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage; spelling and pronunciation are consistent.
Connotations
Primarily carries academic/scientific connotations in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency outside technical contexts in both UK and US English.
Grammar
How to Use “topology” in a Sentence
[noun] of [noun][adjective] topologytopology is [adjective]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “topology” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- topological
- The topological properties were invariant.
American English
- topological
- A topological space can be counterintuitive.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in IT and network planning departments: 'We need to redesign the office network topology.'
Academic
Common in mathematics, physics, and computer science: 'His thesis focuses on knot theory, a branch of topology.'
Everyday
Very rare; might be heard in tech hobbies: 'The mesh topology of my smart home devices is quite robust.'
Technical
Precise use in mathematics (e.g., topology of a manifold) and computing (e.g., bus topology).
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “topology”
Strong
Neutral
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “topology”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “topology”
- Confusing 'topology' with 'topography' (the latter concerns physical surface features).
- Using it as a synonym for 'hierarchy' or 'taxonomy'.
- Mispronouncing stress as 'TOP-ology' (correct: 'to-POL-ogy').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It studies properties of space that are preserved under continuous deformations, like stretching or bending, but not tearing or gluing.
No. Geometry concerns precise distances and angles, while topology is more about the overall shape and connectivity.
It describes the layout of network components (like star, bus, ring, or mesh topologies) which affects performance and reliability.
The 'Möbius strip' is a classic topological object – a surface with only one side and one edge.
The study of geometric properties that remain unchanged under continuous deformation (such as stretching, bending, or twisting) without tearing or gluing.
Topology is usually technical/scientific in register.
Topology: in British English it is pronounced təˈpɒlədʒi, and in American English it is pronounced təˈpɑːlədʒi. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “rubber-sheet geometry (informal synonym)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine TOP of a flexible LOG (shape) – topology studies shapes you can mold like a log's top.
Conceptual Metaphor
SHAPE AS PLASTIC (malleable, continuous), NETWORK AS MAP (interconnected layout).
Practice
Quiz
Which field is most closely associated with the term 'topology'?