Diametric: meaning, definitions and examples

⚖️
Add to dictionary

diametric

 

[ daɪəˈmɛtrɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

opposite extremes

Diametric refers to something that is directly opposite or contrasting. It is often used to describe positions, opinions, or physical locations that are radically different from each other. In geometry, it can specifically relate to points on the opposite ends of a diameter in a circle. The term highlights the extreme nature of the differences between two entities, emphasizing that they occupy contrary positions or represent divergent viewpoints.

Synonyms

antithetical, contradictory, opposing

Examples of usage

  • They hold diametric views on the issue.
  • The two factions are diametric opposites.
  • His opinions are diametric to mine.

Translations

Translations of the word "diametric" in other languages:

🇵🇹 diamétrico

🇮🇳 विपरीत

🇩🇪 diametral

🇮🇩 diametrik

🇺🇦 діаметральний

🇵🇱 średnicowy

🇯🇵 直径の

🇫🇷 diagonal

🇪🇸 diamétrico

🇹🇷 diametrik

🇰🇷 직경의

🇸🇦 قطري

🇨🇿 diametrální

🇸🇰 diametrálny

🇨🇳 直径的

🇸🇮 diametričen

🇮🇸 þversnið

🇰🇿 диаметрлік

🇬🇪 დიამეტრიული

🇦🇿 diametrik

🇲🇽 diamétrico

Etymology

The term 'diametric' originates from the Greek word 'diametros', combining 'dia-' meaning 'across' and 'metron' meaning 'measure'. This lexical history is indicative of the concept of measuring or comparing opposite ends. The word was adopted into Latin as 'diametricus', before making its way into the English language during the 17th century. The usage has evolved over time, particularly in scientific and mathematical contexts, where it pertains not only to geometry but also to discussions on opposing aspects or extreme differences in opinion. Today, it retains its original connotations while finding applications in various fields, including philosophy, social sciences, and everyday language, serving primarily to describe opposing positions or characteristics.