Curvature: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this term when describing the smooth, continuous change in the direction of a surface or line, especially in mathematics, physics, or anatomy.

• The curvature of the Earth affects long-distance travel routes
• The doctor noted the abnormal curvature of the patient's spine

Suitable for describing a smooth, gradual change in direction, often used in both everyday language and technical contexts. It can relate to roads, graphs, shapes, and more.

• The road curves around the mountain
• The graph shows a steady curve indicating growth over the year

Use this word in everyday situations when describing a change in direction, especially in roads, paths, or objects. It can also refer to the act of physically bending something.

• The river takes a sharp bend here
• She had to bend the wire to fit it into the loop

This word is appropriate when referring to a segment of the circumference of a circle or a smooth curve resembling part of a circle. Often used in geometry, storytelling, and physics.

• The rainbow formed a beautiful arc across the sky
• The character's development followed a compelling narrative arc

Used when talking about the amount by which a curve deviates from being straight. It's commonly used in geometry, physics, and descriptions of shapes.

• The curvature of the Earth causes ships to disappear from view
• The curvature of the road makes it difficult to drive fast

Used in physics and engineering to describe how quickly an object is rotating around a particular axis. It details the rate of change of the angular position of an object.

• The angular velocity of the fan can be adjusted with the remote control
• Scientists measured the angular velocity of the rotating disk

Describes the act of an object spinning around a center or axis. It can be used generally for everyday objects or in scientific contexts.

• The rotation of the Earth causes day and night
• After the gymnastics routine, the coach commented on her smooth rotation

Used in technical or specialized contexts, such as engineering or physics, to describe the shape or form of an object.

• The aircraft's design includes a gentle curvature to improve aerodynamics
• The architect appreciated the smooth curvature of the structure

This word is typically used in everyday language to describe the action of making something curved or the result of that action.

• She was bending the wire to make a hook
• The tree showed signs of bending after the strong winds

This term is often found in technical or scientific literature, particularly in fields like geology, engineering, or anatomy, to describe a curve or bend.

• The flexure of the bridge under heavy load was within acceptable limits
• The geological survey showed significant flexure in the rock layers