convolution

noun

con·​vo·​lu·​tion ˌkän-və-ˈlü-shən 

1

: a form or shape that is folded in curved or tortuous windings

the convolutions of the intestines

2

: one of the irregular ridges on the surface of the brain and especially of the cerebrum of higher mammals

3

: a complication or intricacy of form, design, or structure

… societies in which the convolutions of power and the caprices of the powerful are ever-present dangers to survival.

—Mary Lee Settle

Synonyms

• complexity
• complicacy
• complication
• difficulty
• intricacy

Examples of convolution in a Sentence

I found it hard to follow the convolutions of the book's plot.

a plot full of convolution and confusion

Recent Examples on the Web

Sure, by the end of the episode, the convolutions have begun to accumulate, but that just goes with the territory. —Keith Phipps, Vulture, 29 Aug. 2024

The resulting structure, unlike a smooth seawall, is replete with nooks, crannies, and convolutions. —Saqib Rahim, WIRED, 11 Oct. 2024

Plot convolutions involving a Time Variance Authority (TVA) controlled by evil Mr. Paradox (Matthew Macfadyen) allow for numerous inconsistencies — not paradoxical facts of being and nothingness, just a setup for Deadpool’s interminable, rude, self-reflexive jokes. —Armond White, National Review, 26 July 2024

The English and Bengali-language project, currently in development, explores the emotional and spiritual convolutions of an immigrant from Bengal living in Scotland. —Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 16 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Medieval Latin convolūtiōn-, convolūtiō "a folding," from Latin convolū-, variant stem of convolvere "to roll up, coil, twist" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action — more at convolve

First Known Use

1545, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

convolution

noun

con·​vo·​lu·​tion ˌkän-və-ˈlü-shən 

: one of the uneven ridges on the surface of the brain and especially of the cerebrum of higher mammals

Medical Definition

convolution

noun

con·​vo·​lu·​tion ˌkän-və-ˈlü-shən 

: any of the irregular ridges on the surface of the brain and especially of the cerebrum

called also gyrus

compare sulcus

convolutional

-shnəl, -shən-ᵊl 

adjective