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Elliptical Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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elliptical

[ɪˈlɪptɪk(ə)l ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

exercise equipment

Relating to or denoting a type of exercise equipment consisting of a cross-country ski machine, stationary bicycle, or similar device, used to simulate climbing stairs or walking or running with reduced impact on the joints.

Synonyms

cross-trainer, elliptical trainer, exercise machine.

Examples of usage

  • Many people prefer using elliptical machines at the gym to get a full-body workout.
  • She spends 30 minutes a day on the elliptical trainer to keep fit.
  • Elliptical trainers are popular because they provide a low-impact workout.
  • I like to switch between the treadmill and the elliptical for my cardio sessions.
  • The elliptical is great for working the leg muscles without straining the knees.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Science

  • In astronomy, planets and satellites often follow elliptical orbits due to gravitational forces.
  • The Law of Ellipses, articulated by Johannes Kepler, describes how planets move around the sun.
  • In physics, the term relates to the elliptical paths taken by particles in certain fields.

Pop Culture

  • Elliptical shapes frequently appear in modern art, suggesting movement, fluidity, or emotion.
  • The elliptical trainer, a popular fitness machine, mimics a natural running motion while being easier on the joints.
  • In literature, elliptical writing often leaves out certain details, prompting readers to infer or fill in blanks.

Mathematics

  • An ellipse is defined mathematically as the set of all points where the sum of distances from two focal points is constant.
  • There are many applications in geometry, including calculating areas and circumferences of elliptical shapes.
  • The concept of eccentricity explains how much an ellipse deviates from being circular.

Architecture

  • Elliptical arches are used in various buildings to add aesthetic elegance and a sense of grandeur.
  • Famous structures, such as the Ellipse Pavilion in Paris, showcase the beauty and dynamics of elliptically shaped design.
  • Elliptical structures can enhance acoustics in concert halls by allowing sound to travel smoothly around the space.

Origin of 'elliptical'

Main points about word origin

  • Originates from the Greek word 'elleipsis', meaning 'a falling short' or 'to fail'.
  • Originally used in mathematics to describe trajectories in space which resemble oval shapes.
  • The term was first adopted into English in the late 16th century.

The word 'elliptical' originates from the Latin word 'ellipticus', which means 'oval'. In the context of exercise equipment, the term 'elliptical' was first used in the late 20th century to describe machines that mimic the motion of walking, running, or climbing stairs with reduced impact on the joints. These machines gained popularity in fitness centers and home gyms due to their effectiveness in providing a cardiovascular workout while being gentler on the body.

See also: ellipse.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,891, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.