fractal
nounUK /ˈfræk.təl/
US /ˈfræk.təl/
A fractal is a shape that repeats the same pattern over and over, getting smaller each time.
The fern leaf is a fractal because each small part looks just like the whole leaf.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A mathematical set or curve that shows the same structure at every scale.
The Mandelbrot set is a famous fractal studied by mathematicians.
3. A computer-generated image made from repeating mathematical patterns.
The movie used fractals to create realistic mountain landscapes.
4. A complex, irregular pattern that repeats at smaller and smaller sizes in nature.
Lightning branches out in a fractal pattern across the sky.