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

Example Sentences

The quadrature of the circle, the philosopher's stone, and the next way to the Indies.

From Notes and Queries, Number 215, December 10, 1853 A Medium of Inter-communication for Literary Men, Artists, Antiquaries, Genealogists, etc by Various

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 Saltus, Edgar

Yet, from time to time, treatises are published which boldly announce that they set forth the quadrature of the circle.

From The Works of Robert G. Ingersoll, Vol. 6 (of 12) Dresden Edition?Discussions by Ingersoll, Robert Green

It is just the same with the quadrature of the circle.

From The Exemplary Novels of Cervantes by Cervantes Saavedra, Miguel de

If thirty-six be six square, what is St. James’s-square?—and if the first circles be resident there, say whether this may not be considered as an approximation to the quadrature of the circle.

From Punch, or the London Charivari, Volume 1, October 23, 1841 by Various