cycle Definition
- 1a series of events that are regularly repeated in the same order
- 2a complete set or series
- 3a bicycle or motorcycle
Using cycle: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "cycle" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The water cycle involves evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.
Example
The business cycle goes through periods of growth and recession.
Example
The washing machine is on a spin cycle.
Example
He rode his cycle to work.
cycle Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for cycle
- sequence
- round
- loop
- pattern
- rotation
Antonyms for cycle
- disorder
- chaos
Idioms Using cycle
break the cycle
to stop a pattern of behavior that is harmful or negative
Example
She sought therapy to break the cycle of abusive relationships.
vicious cycle
a situation in which one problem causes another problem that then makes the first problem worse
Example
Poverty and lack of education can create a vicious cycle that is difficult to escape.
cycle of life
the natural progression of birth, growth, reproduction, and death that occurs in all living things
Example
The cycle of life is a fundamental concept in many cultures and religions.
Phrases with cycle
life cycle
the series of changes in the life of an organism, including reproduction and death
Example
The life cycle of a butterfly involves metamorphosis from egg to caterpillar to pupa to adult.
menstrual cycle
the monthly cycle of changes in the female reproductive system, including ovulation and menstruation
Example
She tracks her menstrual cycle using a calendar.
carbon cycle
the process by which carbon is exchanged between living organisms and the environment
Example
The carbon cycle plays a crucial role in regulating the Earth's climate.
Origins of cycle
from Greek 'kyklos', meaning 'circle'
Summary: cycle in Brief
The term 'cycle' [ˈsaɪkl] refers to a regularly repeated series of events or a complete set or series. It can also refer to a bicycle or motorcycle. Examples include the water cycle and the business cycle. Phrases like 'life cycle' and 'carbon cycle' denote specific processes, while idioms like 'break the cycle' and 'vicious cycle' describe patterns of behavior or problems. 'Cycle' can be used formally as 'sequence' or 'pattern,' or informally as 'loop' or 'round.'
