Heptagram

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A geometric figure consisting of seven points connected in a specific way, often forming a star-like shape
2. An emblem or symbol made by joining seven lines or angles, representing ideas in mystical or mathematical contexts
3. A seven-pointed star, sometimes used in various cultural or esoteric traditions to convey specific meanings or attributes

Etymology: "Heptagram" is a plain compound: "hepta-" from Greek "heptá", meaning "seven", joined to "-gram", from Greek "gramma", meaning "letter" or "written mark" and, in geometry, a drawn figure. Put together, it names a figure built from seven points, usually joined by lines that cross in a regular pattern rather than simply outlining a seven-sided shape. The same prefix appears in other mathematical and everyday words, such as "heptagon" (a seven-sided polygon) and "heptathlon," a seven-event contest. The "-gram" element is the one that gives the word its star-like character: a related term, "pentagram," names the five-pointed star familiar from magic and heraldry, and "heptagram" follows the same pattern for seven points.