Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˌkɒn.vəˈluː.ʃən/ (UK), /ˌkɑːn.vəˈluː.ʃən/ (US)

Definitions

• A complex or intricate form or shape.
• The process of coiling or twisting together.
• In mathematics and signal processing, a function expressing how the shape of one function is modified by another.

Usage Examples

• The brain’s surface is covered in convolutions that increase its surface area.
• Understanding the convolution of these two mathematical functions requires advanced calculus.

Etymology

From Latin convolutio, meaning "a rolling together," derived from convolvere (con- "together" + volvere "to roll").

Synonyms

• Complexity, intricacy, coil, twist, entanglement.

Antonyms

• Simplicity, clarity, straightforwardness.

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

British English: /ˌkɒn.vəˈluː.ʃən/

American English: /ˌkɑːn.vəˈluː.ʃən/

Historical Usage

The word convolution has been used in English since the late 16th century to describe twisting and intricate forms, later expanding to technical fields such as mathematics and neuroscience.

Cultural Nuances

In literature, the term convolution often describes intricate plots. In mathematics, it refers to a fundamental operation in functions and signals.

More Information

Convolution is widely used in engineering, physics, and artificial intelligence, particularly in convolutional neural networks (CNNs), which process visual and speech recognition tasks.