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
Mary Lee SettleSynonyms
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
Tax experts are well-versed in navigating the tax code’s convolutions and can offer personalized guidance.
—Quartz Intelligence Newsroom, Quartz, 28 Jan. 2025
The stakes are higher than ever, and most refreshingly of all, the convolution levels are very manageable right now.
—Ben Rosenstock, Vulture, 23 Jan. 2025
The season takes new turns while remaining the most ambitious, batty and all-out pleasurable show on TV, an M.C. Escher maze whose plot convolutions never get in the way of its voice, heart and sense of humor.
—James Poniewozik, New York Times, 16 Jan. 2025
Instead of excessive fastidiousness and convolution, the mood is one of generosity, ease, and serenity.
—Mayer Rus, Architectural Digest, 5 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for convolution 
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Quartz Intelligence Newsroom, Quartz, 28 Jan. 2025
The stakes are higher than ever, and most refreshingly of all, the convolution levels are very manageable right now.
—Ben Rosenstock, Vulture, 23 Jan. 2025
The season takes new turns while remaining the most ambitious, batty and all-out pleasurable show on TV, an M.C. Escher maze whose plot convolutions never get in the way of its voice, heart and sense of humor.
—James Poniewozik, New York Times, 16 Jan. 2025
Instead of excessive fastidiousness and convolution, the mood is one of generosity, ease, and serenity.
—Mayer Rus, Architectural Digest, 5 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for convolution
Dictionary Entries Near convolution
Cite this Entry
“Convolution.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/convolution. Accessed 9 Feb. 2025.
Copy CitationKids 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 sulcusLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
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