quadrature of the circle

American  

noun

Mathematics.

1. the insoluble problem of constructing, by the methods of Euclidean geometry, a square equal in area to a given circle.

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Etymology

Origin of quadrature of the circle

First recorded in 1590–1600

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

quadrature of the circle

Circular movement of four equal angles around one point; the quadrature of the circle, 771-l.

From Morals and Dogma of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry by Albert Pike

He boasted without reason of having found the quadrature of the circle.

From A Budget of Paradoxes, Volume I by David Eugene Smith

Pius IX. was only in a limited degree responsible for his want of success, because the task he had set before him was the quadrature of the circle in politics.

From The Liberation of Italy by Countess Evelyn Martinengo-Cesaresco

Old poets have recognized the quadrature of the circle as a well-known difficulty.

From A Budget of Paradoxes, Volume II by David Eugene Smith

And, were it lost, the quadrature of the circle would not be more difficult than its restoration.

From The Truth About Tristrem Varick A Novel by Edgar Saltus

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