In geometry, what does the term 'transversal' refer to?

The term 'transversal' in geometry specifically refers to a line that crosses two or more lines at distinct points. When a transversal intersects parallel lines, it creates several angles that have special relationships, such as corresponding angles, alternate interior angles, and consecutive interior angles. Understanding the role of a transversal is crucial for solving problems related to angle relationships and for proving theorems regarding parallel lines.

The other definitions provided do not accurately describe what a transversal is. For instance, a line that runs parallel to another does not intersect it, hence cannot be a transversal; a line that intersects a circle refers to a secant, and a line segment that connects two vertices of a polygon is more accurately described as a chord or diagonal, depending on the context. Therefore, the best definition in this context is that a transversal is a line that intersects two or more other lines at distinct points.