What is a trapezoid defined as in geometry?

In geometry, a trapezoid is defined as a quadrilateral that has exactly one pair of parallel sides. This characteristic differentiates trapezoids from other types of quadrilaterals.

The parallel sides are known as the bases of the trapezoid, while the non-parallel sides are referred to as the legs. This specific definition allows for a variety of trapezoids, including isosceles trapezoids, where the non-parallel sides are of equal length, and right trapezoids, which have one or two right angles.

Understanding this definition is essential as it helps in identifying and classifying various quadrilaterals in geometry.