Elliptic: meaning, definitions and examples

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elliptic

 

[ ɪˈlɪptɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

geometry shape

Elliptic refers to a shape that resembles an ellipse, which is a flattened circle. In mathematics, elliptic geometry is a non-Euclidean geometry in which the parallel postulate of Euclidean geometry does not hold. Objects in elliptic geometry have properties that differ significantly from those in traditional planar geometry. Elliptic curves are important in number theory and cryptography. The term can also describe processes or functions that have an elliptical characteristic.

Synonyms

curved, ellipsoidal, oval

Examples of usage

  • The orbit of planets is elliptical in shape.
  • We studied elliptic integrals in advanced calculus.
  • The design of the garden featured an elliptic lawn.
  • The artist used elliptic forms in his sculptures.

Translations

Translations of the word "elliptic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 elíptico

🇮🇳 अंडाकार

🇩🇪 elliptisch

🇮🇩 elips

🇺🇦 еліптичний

🇵🇱 eliptyczny

🇯🇵 楕円の

🇫🇷 elliptique

🇪🇸 elíptico

🇹🇷 eliptik

🇰🇷 타원형의

🇸🇦 بيضاوي

🇨🇿 eliptický

🇸🇰 eliptický

🇨🇳 椭圆的

🇸🇮 eliptičen

🇮🇸 elliptískur

🇰🇿 эллиптикалық

🇬🇪 ელიპტიური

🇦🇿 elliptik

🇲🇽 elíptico

Etymology

The word 'elliptic' derives from the Latin word 'ellipticus', which in turn comes from the Greek 'elleiptikos', meaning 'defective' or 'omitted.' This etymology relates to the properties of an ellipse, which can be viewed as a circle that has been stretched or compressed in one direction. The mathematical study of ellipses dates back to ancient Greeks, particularly the work of conic sections by mathematicians like Apollonius of Perga. As mathematics evolved, the term began to encompass a broader range of concepts in different fields, including physics, astronomy, and engineering. In modern usage, elliptic is commonly associated with the characteristics and equations of ellipses, especially in fields such as geometry and algebra.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,730, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.