Bisector – Definition & Meaning

A bisector is a line, ray, or segment that divides an angle or a line segment into two equal parts. It is a fundamental concept in geometry and plays a crucial role in many mathematical and engineering applications. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, meaning in different dictionaries, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences of the term “bisector.”

Definitions

A bisector is a mathematical term that refers to a line, ray, or segment that divides an angle or a line segment into two equal parts. It is a line that passes through the midpoint of a line segment or the vertex of an angle, dividing it into two equal halves. The concept of bisector is essential in geometry, trigonometry, and other branches of mathematics.

Origin

The term “bisector” comes from the Latin word “bisecare,” which means to cut into two equal parts. The word “bisector” was first used in the English language in the mid-17th century.

Meaning in different dictionaries

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, a bisector is “a line, ray, or plane that divides something into two equal parts.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines a bisector as “a line or plane that passes through the midpoint of a line segment or the vertex of an angle and divides it into two equal parts.”

Associations

The concept of bisector is closely related to other mathematical concepts such as midpoint, angle, and perpendicular. A bisector can be used to find the midpoint of a line segment or the angle between two lines. It can also be used to construct perpendicular lines.

Synonyms

Some synonyms of bisector include divider, splitter, separator, and parting line.

Antonyms

There are no direct antonyms of bisector, but some related terms that could be considered as antonyms include off-center, uneven, and asymmetrical.

The same root words

The root word of bisector is “sect,” which means to cut or divide. Other words that share the same root word include section, sector, and dissect.

Example Sentences

1. The bisector of angle ABC divides it into two equal parts.
2. The line segment PQ is divided into two equal parts by its bisector.
3. The bisector of the angle formed by the two walls is perpendicular to the floor.
4. The carpenter used a bisector to find the midpoint of the board.
5. The bisector of a circle is a diameter that passes through the center.