When it comes to geometric shapes, a figure with eight equal sides is called an octagon. The word "octagon" is derived from the Greek words "octa," meaning eight, and "gonia," meaning angle. This means that an octagon is a polygon with eight straight sides and eight angles.

Octagons can be found in various places in our daily lives, from stop signs on the road to the design of certain buildings and structures. The equal sides and angles of an octagon give it a symmetrical and pleasing appearance, making it a popular shape for both practical and aesthetic purposes.

One interesting property of an octagon is that the sum of its interior angles is always equal to 1080 degrees. This means that each interior angle of an octagon measures 135 degrees. Knowing this property can be useful when working with octagons in geometry or design.

Octagons are also commonly used in mathematics and engineering for their unique properties and symmetry. For example, octagons can be used to create tessellations, which are patterns of shapes that fit together perfectly without any gaps or overlaps. The regularity of an octagon's shape makes it ideal for creating intricate and visually appealing tessellations.

Overall, understanding what a figure with eight equal sides is called can be useful in various fields, from mathematics and geometry to design and architecture. The octagon's symmetrical and balanced appearance makes it a versatile shape that can be used in a wide range of applications.

Whether you're a student studying geometry or a designer looking for inspiration, knowing about octagons and their properties can enhance your understanding of shapes and their uses. So the next time you come across a shape with eight equal sides, you'll know that it's called an octagon.

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