Ellipse: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in mathematical or scientific contexts to refer to a specific geometric shape characterized by two focal points.

• The properties of an ellipse are often used in astronomy to describe planetary orbits.
• The equation of an ellipse is derived from its geometric definition.

Commonly used in everyday language to describe shapes that resemble stretched circles; often used in art, design, and describing everyday objects.

• She wore a beautiful necklace with an oval pendant.
• The children ran around an oval track during gym class.

Describes something that is longer in one direction than in the other, often used for objects that are vaguely rectangular but with rounded edges.

• The conference table was an oblong shape to accommodate more people.
• He handed her an oblong package wrapped in brown paper.

Often used to describe objects or forms that resemble an ellipse in shape but are not precisely an ellipse; can also be used in a figurative sense to describe speech or writing that is indirect or ambiguous.

• The artist drew an elliptical shape to represent the planet.
• Her elliptical remarks made it difficult to understand her true intentions.

Used in mathematical and technical contexts to describe a specific shape.

• The orbit of the Earth around the Sun is an ellipse.
• In geometry class, we learned how to calculate the area of an ellipse.

Used to describe a rounded, elongated shape that resembles an egg. Commonly used in everyday language to describe shapes of objects, faces, or designs.

• The mirror had a beautiful oval frame.
• She picked an oval gemstone for her ring.

Used to describe an object or shape that is longer than it is wide, often with rounded ends. Commonly used in everyday conversation to describe shapes of household items or body parts.

• The table had an oblong top, making it perfect for the narrow dining room.
• His face had an oblong shape, giving him a distinctive look.

Used to describe something that has the shape or characteristics of an ellipse. Also used metaphorically to refer to something that is indirect or obscured.

• The runner followed an elliptical track around the park.
• Her explanation was so elliptical that I couldn't understand the main point.