Geodesic: meaning, definitions and examples

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geodesic

 

[ ˌdʒiːəˈdɛsɪk ]

Noun / Adjective
Context #1 | Noun

mathematics, geometry

A geodesic is the shortest path between two points on a curved surface. In mathematics and geometry, it is commonly associated with concepts in differential geometry. Geodesics can be found on surfaces like spheres and are essential in the study of the geometry of space. The most familiar geodesics are the great circles of a sphere, such as the shortest distance between two points on the Earth.

Synonyms

great circle, minimal surface, shortest path

Examples of usage

  • The geodesic on the sphere is a great circle.
  • Pilots often plan their flight routes along geodesics to save fuel.
  • In general relativity, particles travel along geodesic paths in spacetime.
Context #2 | Adjective

geometry, navigation

Geodesic can also describe a path or figure that represents the shortest distance on a curved surface. In the context of navigation and mapping, the term is used to denote routes that minimize travel distance or time. This concept is crucial for designing efficient transportation routes in engineering, astronomy, and geography.

Synonyms

direct, efficient, optimal

Examples of usage

  • The geodesic distance between the two cities was calculated.
  • They used geodesic curves to model the terrain in their simulation.
  • The architect designed the building using geodesic principles for stability.

Translations

Translations of the word "geodesic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 geodésica

🇮🇳 ज्यामितीय

🇩🇪 geodätisch

🇮🇩 geodesik

🇺🇦 геодезичний

🇵🇱 geodezyjny

🇯🇵 測地的

🇫🇷 géodésique

🇪🇸 geodésico

🇹🇷 jeodezik

🇰🇷 지오데식

🇸🇦 جيوي

🇨🇿 geodetický

🇸🇰 geodetický

🇨🇳 大地测量的

🇸🇮 geodetski

🇮🇸 jarðfræði

🇰🇿 геодезиялық

🇬🇪 გეოდეზიური

🇦🇿 geodezik

🇲🇽 geodésico

Word origin

The term 'geodesic' derives from the Greek words 'geō' (meaning earth) and 'dēdokē' (to divide). Historically, geodesy is the science of measuring and understanding Earth's geometric shape, orientation in space, and gravity field. The concept of geodesics became significantly prominent in the era of Einstein's theory of general relativity, where the shape of space is influenced by mass and energy. Geodesics are used not only in theoretical physics but have also found practical applications in navigation, surveying, and architecture, underlining the rich interplay between mathematics and various scientific fields.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,048, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.