Sigmoid means resembling the lower-case Greek letter
sigma
Sigma (; uppercase Σ, lowercase σ, lowercase in word-final position ς; grc-gre, σίγμα) is the eighteenth letter of the Greek alphabet. In the system of Greek numerals, it has a value of 200. In general mathematics, uppercase Σ is used as ...
(
uppercase
Letter case is the distinction between the Letter (alphabet), letters that are in larger uppercase or capitals (or more formally ''majuscule'') and smaller lowercase (or more formally ''minuscule'') in the written representation of certain lang ...
Σ,
lowercase
Letter case is the distinction between the Letter (alphabet), letters that are in larger uppercase or capitals (or more formally ''majuscule'') and smaller lowercase (or more formally ''minuscule'') in the written representation of certain lang ...
σ, lowercase in word-final position ς) or the Latin letter
S. Specific uses include:
*
Sigmoid function
A sigmoid function is a mathematical function having a characteristic "S"-shaped curve or sigmoid curve.
A common example of a sigmoid function is the logistic function shown in the first figure and defined by the formula:
:S(x) = \frac = \f ...
, a mathematical function
*
Sigmoid colon
The sigmoid colon (or pelvic colon) is the part of the large intestine that is closest to the rectum and anus. It forms a loop that averages about in length. The loop is typically shaped like a Greek letter sigma (ς) or Latin letter S (thus ''s ...
, part of the large intestine or colon
*
Sigmoid sinus
The sigmoid sinuses (sigma- or s-shaped hollow curve), also known as the , are venous sinuses within the skull that receive blood from posterior dural venous sinus veins.
Structure
The sigmoid sinus is a dural venous sinus situated within the du ...
, two structures that drain blood from the bottom of the brain
*
Sigmoid arteries
The sigmoid arteries are 2-5 branches of the inferior mesenteric artery that are distributed to the distal descending colon and the sigmoid colon.
Anatomy
Course and relations
The sigmoid arteries course obliquely inferior-ward and to the lef ...
, a pair/trio of arteries in the lower abdomen
See also
*
Ogee, similar shape, term sometimes used for sigmoids
{{disambiguation