self-similar shape
nounUK /ˌsɛlf ˈsɪmɪlə ʃeɪp/
US /ˌsɛlf ˈsɪmələr ʃeɪp/
A shape that looks like a smaller copy of itself when you zoom in.
A fern leaf is a self-similar shape because each small part looks like the whole leaf.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A mathematical object that repeats its structure at every scale.
The Koch snowflake is a famous self-similar shape studied in math class.
3. A pattern in nature where small pieces resemble the whole.
Romanesco broccoli is a self-similar shape you can find in the grocery store.
4. A design made of smaller copies of itself.
The artist drew a self-similar shape by repeating tiny triangles inside bigger ones.