cylindrical

adjective

cy·​lin·​dri·​cal sə-ˈlin-dri-kəl How to pronounce cylindrical (audio)
variants or less commonly cylindric
sə-ˈlin-drik How to pronounce cylindrical (audio)
Synonyms of cylindricalnext
: relating to or having the form or properties of a cylinder
cylindrically
sə-ˈlin-dri-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce cylindrical (audio)
adverb

Examples of cylindrical in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Many sunrise alarm clocks are round to fill the room with artificial light, while other models may be cylindrical or cube-shaped. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 15 June 2026 These are rectangular and larger than cylindrical cells, and shaped like a nine-volt battery (9V). — Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 2 June 2026 Stove-pipe sponges, which grow to about five feet tall, are slender, cylindrical, and often in hues of purple, while wide giant barrel sponges typically display a reddish tint. — Erik Trinidad, Travel + Leisure, 8 May 2026 Hornet nests are made from a papery substance, are usually a closed structure that’s cylindrical in form, and may be built in the eaves of your home, under a roof, in a tree, or in another sheltered spot. — Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for cylindrical

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cylindrical was in 1646

Phrases Containing cylindrical

Rhymes for cylindrical

See All Rhymes for cylindrical

Browse Nearby Words

cylindrarthrosis
cylindrical
cylindrical coordinate
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cylindrical.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cylindrical. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on cylindrical

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for cylindrical

Nglish: Translation of cylindrical for Spanish Speakers

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