Trapezoid

Trapezoid

Trapezoid is a quadrilateral, a four-sided polygon, with at least one pair of parallel sides. In Euclidean geometry, a trapezoid is defined as a quadrilateral with exactly one pair of parallel sides, known as the bases of the trapezoid. The sides that are not parallel are called the legs or the lateral sides. The angles formed by a base and a leg are referred to as base angles. In a trapezoid, the base angles on the same leg are supplementary, meaning they add up to 180 degrees. The median of a trapezoid, also known as the midline, is the line segment that connects the midpoints of the legs. It is parallel to the bases and its length is equal to the average of the lengths of the bases. Trapezoids have significant applications in various fields, including architecture, engineering, and design. They are often used in the construction of bridges, trusses, and other structures due to their stability and load-bearing properties. In graphic design, trapezoids can be employed to create visual interest, depth, and perspective. The geometric shape of a trapezoid can also be found in everyday objects, such as certain tables, desks, and windows.

quadrilateral, parallel sides, base angles, midline

— John Armstrong

CITATION : "John Armstrong. 'Trapezoid.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/define/trapezoid?E=433807 (Accessed on October 14, 2026)"