figurate
|fig-u-rate|
/ˈfɪɡjəreɪt/
made or represented as a figure/shape
Etymology
'figurate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'figuratus', where 'figura' meant 'shape, form'.
'figuratus' (Latin past participle of 'figurare') passed into Late Latin/medieval Latin and influenced Old French 'figurer' and Middle English formations, eventually giving modern English 'figurate'.
Initially, it meant 'made into a figure' or 'shaped'; over time it retained that core sense but extended to specialized uses (e.g., mathematical 'figurate numbers' and musical 'figurate' passages).
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to form, shape, or represent in a figure; to give a definite figure or shape to (archaic or specialized use).
The sculptor figurated the myth in marble.
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Adjective 1
represented by, consisting of, or relating to a figure or figures; having a definite shape or pattern (often used in mathematics: e.g., figurate numbers).
Triangular numbers are a type of figurate number.
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Adjective 2
having decorative or ornamental figures or patterned figures (used of musical passages or decorative styles).
The violin passage is highly figurate, full of rapid arpeggiated figures.
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Last updated: 2025/12/24 20:26