What does sphere mean?
A sphere is a rounded three-dimensional form in which every point on its surface is the same distance from its centre. The word also refers to a celestial body, especially in astronomy, and can describe a rounded object. In more abstract contexts, a sphere means an area of activity, influence, or concern, as in a political or cultural sphere. Although the Earth is often described as a sphere, it is technically an imperfect sphere because its shape is slightly flattened at the poles and irregular in other respects. “Sphere” is especially useful in formal writing when discussing geometry, astronomy, or the boundaries of a field of power. Its related adjective, “spherical,” describes something shaped like a sphere or associated with a sphere, while “spheroid” refers to a solid whose shape resembles but is not exactly spherical.
A three-dimensional shape whose surface consists of all the points at the same distance from its centre; also, a celestial body or a broad domain of activity.
"The globe is represented here as a smooth sphere divided into latitude and longitude lines."
To form into a sphere, or to surround with a spherical or approximately spherical form.
"The sculptor sphered the vessel around the central column."
The plural is formed by adding -s.
"Several coloured spheres were suspended from the ceiling."
From the same ancient Greek root as the word “sphere,” we also get “spherical,” “spheroid,” and the idea of objects moving in circular orbits.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sphere come from?
The word comes through Latin from the ancient Greek noun sphaira, meaning “ball” or “sphere.” Greek mathematicians used the term for a geometric solid, and the word passed into English by the early 17th century. Its Greek root also underlies forms such as spheroid and spherule, as well as the adjective spherical.
Related word forms
How sphere is actually used
The geometric and astronomical senses are standard in formal and educational contexts. The abstract sense, meaning a field or domain, is common in formal writing and discourse.
Easily confused with sphere
A sphere is a rounded three-dimensional surface, whereas a spiral is a curve that winds outward or inward around a centre.