Cyclus

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A series of events or phenomena that repeat in a predictable pattern over time; a complete sequence forming a whole in natural or human contexts; a recurring process or set of stages that returns to its starting point
2. An ordered progression of stages or occurrences that happen repeatedly and regularly; a full rotation or repetition within a system; a continual loop involving phases that recur periodically
3. A repetitive chain of phases or events occurring in succession; a total interval encompassing all steps from start to finish before repetition; a systematic sequence that regenerates to maintain continuity in various fields

Etymology: The Latin "cyclus" was itself borrowed from Greek "kyklos", meaning "circle" or "wheel", and the same root turns up far from Europe: Sanskrit "chakra" (wheel, disc) and "chakram" (discus or circular weapon) descend from the same Indo-European ancestor, making them doublets of "cycle". Each branch of the family kept the image of a turning wheel, so a single ancient picture of rotation spread across Greek, Latin, Sanskrit, and later English. Other English words from the same wheel imagery include "chukker", the period of play in polo, and "wheel" itself, which is a close relative through the Germanic side of the family. "Charkha", the spinning wheel used in Indian handloom weaving, belongs to the same group, showing how one idea of turning took many forms.

Synonyms: cycle, series, sequence, round, period

Antonyms: break, interruption, discontinuity