convolution

 
Pronunciation: /ˌkɒnvəˈluːʃ(ə)n/

noun

  • 1a coil or twist: crosses adorned with elaborate convolutions
  • [mass noun] the state of being or process of becoming coiled or twisted: the flexibility of the polymer chain allows extensive convolution
  • 2a thing that is complex and difficult to follow: the convolutions of farm policy
  • 3a sinuous fold in the surface of the brain.
  • 4 (also convolution integral) Mathematics a function derived from two given functions by integration which expresses how the shape of one is modified by the other.
  • a method of determination of the sum of two random variables by integration or summation.

Derivatives

convolutional

adjective

Origin:

mid 16th century: from medieval Latin convolutio(n-), from convolvere 'roll together' (see convolve)