ScienceAugust 15, 2026

honeycomb

HUN-ee-kohm

Definition

A structure consisting of numerous hexagonal cells, used here to describe a recurring geometric pattern of rock fractures on the Martian surface.

Etymology

Originating from Old English, the word combines 'honey' and 'comb', originally referring specifically to the wax structure built by bees to store honey and eggs.

In the news

The article uses 'honeycomb' to visually describe the unique, repetitive polygonal fracture patterns discovered by the Curiosity rover on Mars. This descriptor helps scientists compare the Martian surface features to terrestrial honeycomb structures.

Curiosity stumbles upon a gigantic Martian “honeycomb” that has scientists intrigued

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