What is Geometry?

Geometry is a branch of mathematics that deals with the properties, measurement, and relationships between points, lines, surfaces, and solids. The word, geometry, comes from the Greek word geometria. The literal translation of geometria is "to measure the earth." The ancient Greeks developed geometry from their efforts to measure distances and calculate areas.

The two main areas of geometry are plane geometry and solid geometry. Plane geometry deals with two dimensional (flat or planar) shapes like circles, lines, and triangles. Three dimensional shapes like cubes, spheres, and cones are studied in solid geometry.