facet — English Dictionary

Noun

1. Any one of the flat surfaces cut into a gem.

   Examples

   This facet of the diamond was masterfully cut to enhance its value.

2. One among many similar or related, yet still distinct things.

   Usage

   • Figurative

   Synonyms

   aspect

   Examples

   The child's learning disability was only one facet of the problems contributing to his delinquency.

3. One of a series of things, such as steps in a project.

   Examples

   We had just about completed the research facet of the project when the order came to cancel it.

4. One member of a compound eye, as found in insects and crustaceans.

5. A smooth circumscribed surface.

   Examples

   the articular facet of a bone

6. Any of the small joints at each segment of the spine that provide stability and help guide motion

7. The narrow plane surface between flutings of a column; a fillet.

8. A face of codimension 1 of a polytope.

9. A criterion that can be used to sort and filter, such as the colour or size of products in an online store.

Verb

1. To cut a facet into a gemstone.

Noun

1. a distinct feature or element in a problem

   Synonyms

   aspect

   Broader terms

   featurecharacteristic

   Examples

   he studied every facet of the question

2. a smooth surface (as of a bone or cut gemstone)

   Broader terms

   subfigure