The root “cycl-” originates from the Greek word “kyklos,” meaning “circle,” “wheel,” or “ring.” This morpheme appears in numerous English words, often denoting something circular, recurring, or related to a cycle. Examples include “bicycle,” a two-wheeled vehicle, and “cyclone,” a system of winds rotating around a low-pressure center.
Understanding this root unlocks the meaning of a wide range of vocabulary, from scientific terms like “cytoplasm” (the material within a living cell, excluding the nucleus) to everyday words like “encyclopedia” (originally, a circle of learning). Its historical persistence highlights the enduring importance of cyclical phenomena and circular shapes across various disciplines and cultures. The ability to recognize this root provides valuable context and aids in deciphering unfamiliar terminology.
