scalene
scalene Lexical Profile
scalene Game Scores & Validity
• adjective
Having three sides of unequal length (of a triangle).
"The geometry students were asked to calculate the area of a scalene triangle given the lengths of all three sides."
Relating to or denoting any of the paired triangular muscles of the neck that extend from the cervical vertebrae to the first and second ribs.
"Compression of the brachial plexus between the anterior and middle scalene muscles can cause thoracic outlet syndrome."
Having its axis inclined to the plane of its base rather than perpendicular to it (of a cone or cylinder).
"In solid geometry, the volume of a scalene cone is determined using the same formula as a right circular cone."
• noun
Any of usually three pairs of triangular muscles (anterior, middle, and posterior) on each side of the neck that run from the cervical vertebrae to the upper two ribs and assist in flexing the neck and elevating the ribs during respiration.
"The physical therapist recommended gentle stretching exercises to relieve tension in the patient's tight scalenes."
A scalene triangle or cone.
"By measuring the angles and confirming none were equal, she proved that the figure was a scalene."
• Rhymes for scalene
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the late 17th century from Late Latin 'scalenus', from Ancient Greek 'skalēnos' meaning 'uneven' or 'unequal', which is related to 'skallein' ('to stir up, hoe, or dig').