vertex
C1Formal, Technical, Academic
Definition
Meaning
The highest point or apex; in geometry, the point where two lines meet to form an angle, or the common point of the sides of a polygon.
A key turning point or critical juncture; in graph theory, a node where edges meet; in anatomy, the crown of the head.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The plural is 'vertices' (less commonly 'vertexes'). The core sense is spatial and geometric; extended uses often involve the concept of a critical or pivotal point.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or frequency. Both use 'vertices' as the standard plural, though 'vertexes' is occasionally found.
Connotations
Identical technical connotations. In general use, both equally imply a high point or peak.
Frequency
Equally common in academic/technical contexts. Rare in informal speech in both varieties.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
the vertex of [NOUN PHRASE]a vertex at [LOCATION/COORDINATE]vertices and [PARALLEL NOUN, e.g., edges]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “At the vertex of one's career/power.”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rarely used, except metaphorically for 'peak' performance or market.
Academic
Common in mathematics, computer science, physics, and anatomy.
Everyday
Very rare; would be replaced by 'top', 'peak', or 'corner'.
Technical
The primary register; precise meaning in geometry, 3D modelling, and graph theory.
Examples
By Part of Speech
adjective
British English
- vertex angle
- vertex figure
American English
- vertex angle
- vertex shader
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The tent was shaped like a pyramid with a pointy vertex at the top.
- In a triangle, each corner is called a vertex.
- The vertex of the parabola indicated the projectile's maximum height.
- The algorithm efficiently identifies all vertices connected to the central node in the graph.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a VERTical pinnacle, the high point where things conVERge.
Conceptual Metaphor
IMPORTANCE/SUCCESS IS HEIGHT (reaching a vertex); A JUNCTION/CRITICAL POINT IS A GEOMETRIC VERTEX.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with 'вертикаль' (vertical line). The closest equivalents are 'вершина' (apex) or 'угол' (corner/angle), depending on context.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'vertex' to mean a general centre or middle point (it's a specific point of intersection or peak).
- Misspelling plural as 'vertexes' in formal technical writing (prefer 'vertices').
- Confusing with 'vortex' (whirlpool).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'vertex' LEAST likely to be used?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
The standard plural is 'vertices' (/ˈvɜː.tɪ.siːz/). 'Vertexes' is occasionally used but is less common, especially in technical writing.
In plane geometry, yes, a vertex is a corner where sides meet. In other contexts, 'vertex' implies the highest point, while 'corner' is more general.
It is very formal and technical. In everyday situations, words like 'top', 'peak', 'tip', or 'corner' are much more common.
All can mean the highest point. 'Vertex' is strongly geometric/technical. 'Apex' is often used for systems or abstract peaks (apex of a career). 'Summit' is primarily for mountains or high-level meetings.