Noun
topological soliton (plural topological solitons)
(mathematics, physics) A type of soliton that forms the transition between two adjoining structures or spaces which are "out of phase" in such a way that the transition cannot be seamless.
Synonym: topological defect
One of the simplest and most commonplace examples of a topological soliton occurs in old-fashioned coiled telephone handset cords, which are usually coiled clockwise. Years of picking up the handset can end up coiling parts of the cord in the opposite counterclockwise direction, and when this happens there will be a distinctive larger loop that separates the two directions of coiling. This odd looking transition loop, which is neither clockwise nor counterclockwise, is an excellent example of a topological soliton.