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Osculated: meaning, definitions and examples

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osculated

 

[ ɒsˈkjuleɪtɪd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

mathematics, physics

Osculated refers to the process of fitting a curve to a shape or trajectory in such a way that the curve closely follows the path, especially at a given point. This term is often used in mathematics and physics to describe the tangential relationship between an object and a curve or surface.

Synonyms

adhering, curve-fitting, tangent

Examples of usage

  • The car's trajectory osculated the curve of the road perfectly.
  • In calculus, osculating circles help in understanding curvature.
  • The physicist measured how the trajectory of the projectile osculated the parabolic path.

Translations

Translations of the word "osculated" in other languages:

🇵🇹 osculado

🇮🇳 चुंबित

🇩🇪 umarmt

🇮🇩 dikecup

🇺🇦 поцілований

🇵🇱 pocałowany

🇯🇵 キスされた

🇫🇷 embrassé

🇪🇸 besado

🇹🇷 öpmek

🇰🇷 키스한

🇸🇦 مُعانَقَة

🇨🇿 objetí

🇸🇰 objatý

🇨🇳 被吻

🇸🇮 poljubljen

🇮🇸 kyssaður

🇰🇿 сүйілген

🇬🇪 კოცნილი

🇦🇿 öpmüş

🇲🇽 besado

Word origin

The term 'osculate' is derived from the Latin word 'osculatus', which means 'to kiss'. In the context of mathematics, it metaphorically describes how one curve can 'kiss' another curve at a point, closely approaching it while still being distinct. The use of 'osculate' in mathematics and physics was popularized in the 19th century. It reflects a broader trend in mathematical language to borrow terms from everyday life to describe complex concepts in a more relatable way. The transition from a romantic notion of 'kissing' to a formal mathematical process is a fascinating aspect of language evolution, demonstrating how terms can shift in meaning based on their application in various disciplines.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #43,502, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.