CUSP

cusp

(noun) point formed by two intersecting arcs (as from the intrados of a Gothic arch)

cusp

(noun) small elevation on the grinding surface of a tooth

cusp, leaflet

(noun) a thin triangular flap of a heart valve

Source: WordNet® 3.1


Etymology

Noun

cusp (plural cusps)

A sharp point or pointed end.

(figuratively) An important moment when a decision is made that will determine future events.

(geometry) A point of a curve where the curve is continuous but has no derivative, but such that it has a derivative at every nearby point.

(architecture) A point made by the intersection of two curved lines or curved structures, a common motif in Gothic architecture.

(astrology) A boundary between zodiacal signs and houses.

(dentistry) Any of the pointed parts of a canine tooth or molar.

(anatomy) A flap of a valve of a heart or blood vessel.

Synonyms

• (sharp point, pointed end): ord

Verb

cusp (third-person singular simple present cusps, present participle cusping, simple past and past participle cusped)

(slang) To behave in a reckless or dangerous manner.

Anagrams

• CPSU, CPUs, UPCs, UPSC, cups, scup

Source: Wiktionary


Cusp (ksp), n. Etym: [L. cuspis, -idis, point, pointed end.]

1. (Arch.)

Definition: A triangular protection from the intrados of an arch, or from an inner curve of tracery.

2. (Astrol.)

Definition: The beginning or first entrance of any house in the calculations of nativities, etc.

3. (Astron)

Definition: The point or horn of the crescent moon or other crescent-shaped luminary.

4. (Math.)

Definition: A multiple point of a curve at which two or more branches of the curve have a common tangent.

5. (Anat.)

Definition: A prominence or point, especially on the crown of a tooth.

6. (Bot.)

Definition: A sharp and rigid point.

Cusp, v. t. [imp. & p.p. Cusped (kspt); p.pr. & vb. n. Cusping.]

Definition: To furnish with a cusp or cusps.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition



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Word of the Day

28 February 2025

PRESCRIPTIVE

(adjective) pertaining to giving directives or rules; “prescriptive grammar is concerned with norms of or rules for correct usage”


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Coffee Trivia

Espresso is both a coffee beverage and a brewing method that originated in Italy. When making an espresso, a small amount of nearly boiling water under pressure forces through finely-ground coffee beans. It has more caffeine per unit volume than most coffee beverages. Its smaller serving size will take three shots to equal a mug of standard brewed coffee.

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