Cycle

Definition

Cycle is a noun and verb. As a noun, it refers to a sequence of events that repeats regularly or a complete round or series. As a verb, it means to go through a series of events in a repetitive pattern or to ride a bicycle.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsaɪkəl/
• Respelling: SY-kul

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsaɪkəl/
• Respelling: SY-kul

Etymology

The word "cycle" originates from the Greek "kyklos," meaning "circle" or "wheel." It passed into Latin as "cyclus," referring to a recurring period or sequence, and entered English with meanings related to repetition and continuity.

Derivatives

• Cyclic (adjective)
• Recycling (noun/verb)
• Cyclist (noun)
• Bicycle (noun)
• Cyclical (adjective)

Synonyms

• Rotation
• Sequence
• Loop

Antonyms

• Stagnation
• End
• Termination

Usage

The term "cycle" is used in various contexts, including natural and industrial processes, as in "the water cycle" or "the business cycle." As a verb, it is commonly used in transportation, such as "They cycle to work every day."

Related Terms

• Period: A length or portion of time, often recurring.
• Phase: A stage in a repeating sequence of events.
• Repetition: The act of doing something repeatedly or cyclically.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A series of events that repeat in a regular sequence: Refers to a set of occurrences that form a repeating pattern, often cyclical in nature.
  • Example: "The seasons form a continuous cycle throughout the year."
• A complete round or recurring period: Often used to describe time periods or natural phenomena that follow a set pattern.
  • Example: "The economic cycle includes periods of growth and recession."

Verb

• To go through a series of events repeatedly: Describes an action or process that occurs in a loop or pattern.
  • Example: "The machine cycles through its cleaning process."
• To ride a bicycle: Used in contexts where riding a bicycle or similar vehicle is involved.
  • Example: "She cycles to school every morning."