pyramid

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   a solid shape with a polygonal base and triangular sides that meet at a point

   The students calculated the volume of a square-based pyramid.

2. 2
   noun

   a monumental structure with sloping triangular sides, especially one built as an ancient Egyptian tomb

   The pyramid rose above the desert plateau.

3. 3
   noun

   a system or arrangement with many people or things at the bottom and progressively fewer toward the top

   Only a few executives occupy the top of the corporate pyramid.

4. 4
   verb

   to arrange, build up, or increase in the form or manner of a pyramid

   The acrobats pyramided into a three-level formation.

Through French and Latin pyramis from Ancient Greek pyramis, "pyramid." The Greek word's deeper origin is uncertain; proposed Egyptian and Greek derivations remain disputed. Figurative uses preserve the structure's broad base and narrowing summit.

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