polygon

plane figure / geometric shape / 3D mesh element

Noun

pl: polygons

This term describes a closed geometric shape defined by straight line segments. It carries a neutral, technical connotation used primarily in mathematics, architecture, and design to categorize shapes based on their number of sides and angles. In the context of digital rendering and 3D modeling, the word refers to the fundamental building block of a mesh. A high-polygon count typically implies greater detail and smoothness, whereas a low-polygon style is often a deliberate aesthetic choice in modern gaming.

Meanings

Noun

A plane figure with at least three straight sides and angles.

"The stop sign is a regular octagon, which is a type of polygon."

Noun

A three-dimensional object in computer graphics composed of multiple vertices, edges, and faces used to create a surface.

"The game engine renders high-polygon models to achieve a more realistic appearance of the character."

Last Updated: June 13, 2026•Report an Error