Elliptically: meaning, definitions and examples

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elliptically

 

[ ɪˈlɪp.tɪ.kli ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

shape, manner

Elliptically refers to something being in the shape of an ellipse or to an indirect manner of expressing something. In the context of geometry, it describes objects that are oval-shaped, such as an ellipse having a longer axis and a shorter one. It can also signify communication that is not straightforward or is subtly suggestive, allowing for interpretative understanding.

Synonyms

ambiguously, indirectly, ovally

Examples of usage

  • The planets move elliptically around the sun.
  • She spoke elliptically, leaving much to the imagination.
  • The track was designed elliptically for better racing dynamics.

Translations

Translations of the word "elliptically" in other languages:

🇵🇹 elipticamente

🇮🇳 अंडाकार रूप से

🇩🇪 elliptisch

🇮🇩 elliptis

🇺🇦 еліптично

🇵🇱 eliptycznie

🇯🇵 楕円的に

🇫🇷 elliptiquement

🇪🇸 elípticamente

🇹🇷 eliptik olarak

🇰🇷 타원적으로

🇸🇦 بيضاويًا

🇨🇿 elipticky

🇸🇰 elipticky

🇨🇳 椭圆地

🇸🇮 eliptično

🇮🇸 elliptískt

🇰🇿 эллиптикалық

🇬🇪 ელიპტიურად

🇦🇿 elliptik olaraq

🇲🇽 elípticamente

Word origin

The term 'elliptically' originates from the Latin word 'ellipticus', which denotes 'oval' or 'elliptical'. This Latin term traces back to the Greek word 'elliptikos', rooted in 'elleipsis', meaning 'a falling short' or 'deficiency'. The word evolved in English usage to describe not only geometric shapes but also the conceptual way of expressing ideas that leave out essential parts, creating an elliptical or rounded context that may suggest rather than state. Usage in literature and academic texts often refers to indirect communication, commonly used in philosophical discourses. This dual meaning illustrates the adaptability of the term across different fields and contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,246 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.