radial Definition
- 1arranged like rays that come from the center of a circle
- 2relating to or near the radius of something, especially the radius bone in the arm
- 3spreading out from a central point
Using radial: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "radial" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The spokes on a bicycle wheel are arranged in a radial pattern.
Example
The radial artery is located in the wrist and is commonly used for taking a pulse.
Example
The fireworks display was spectacular, with colorful explosions in a radial pattern.
radial Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for radial
- circular
- radiate
- centrifugal
- spoked
- wheel-like
Antonyms for radial
Phrases with radial
a tire in which the cords that run from bead to bead are laid at right angles to the centerline of the tread
Example
Radial tires are more fuel-efficient than bias-ply tires.
an internal combustion engine in which the cylinders radiate outward from a central crankcase like the spokes of a wheel
Example
The radial engine was widely used in aircraft during World War II.
a type of symmetry where the body plan is arranged around a central axis, like spokes on a wheel
Example
Starfish have radial symmetry, with their arms radiating out from a central disk.
Origins of radial
from Latin 'radius', meaning 'ray'
Summary: radial in Brief
The term 'radial' [ˈreɪdiəl] refers to things arranged like rays from the center of a circle, such as the spokes on a bicycle wheel. It can also relate to the radius bone in the arm or spreading out from a central point, as in a fireworks display. 'Radial' extends into phrases like 'radial tire,' 'radial engine,' and 'radial symmetry,' which denote specific technical concepts.
