apex

Everyday

1. The top or pointed tip of something, like a mountain or a triangle. tree →
2. The highest point of success. tree →
3. (maths) The point of a cone or pyramid opposite the base. tree →

In the lessons

In maths lessons, the apex is the top vertex of a pyramid or cone. In science, an «apex predator» is at the top of a food chain. Phrases: «apex predator», «at the apex of».

Examples

• The climbers reached the apex of the mountain. tree →
• A square-based pyramid has one apex. tree →
• Lions are apex predators. tree →
• She was at the apex of her career. tree →
• Label the apex of the cone. tree →
• The roof slopes up to an apex. tree →

Note

Plural: apexes or apices. In maths, apex is a special vertex.