Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Parabolic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ“ˆ
Add to dictionary

parabolic

[หŒpรฆrษ™หˆbษ’lษชk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

mathematics

Of or relating to a parabola.

Examples of usage

  • The parabolic mirror focused the light rays at a single point.
  • The ball followed a parabolic path as it was thrown into the air.
Context #2 | Adjective

physics

Having the form of a parabola.

Examples of usage

  • The satellite's trajectory was parabolic as it entered the Earth's atmosphere.
  • The parabolic antenna was used to receive signals from space.
Context #3 | Adjective

figurative

Resembling or likened to a parabola in shape or trajectory.

Examples of usage

  • The athlete's performance followed a parabolic curve, reaching its peak and then declining.
  • The company's profits showed a parabolic increase over the last year.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • A parabolic curve is the graph of a quadratic function, which can be expressed as y = axยฒ + bx + c.
  • When an object is thrown in the air, its path is parabolic, meaning it rises and then falls down in a U shape.
  • The vertex of a parabola is its highest or lowest point and plays a crucial role in optimizing equations.

Physics

  • In physics, parabolas describe projectile motion when air resistance is negligible.
  • The shape of parabolic mirrors focuses light or sound waves to a single point, useful in telescopes and satellite dishes.
  • Parabolic trajectories can also represent orbital dynamics, such as the path of comets around the sun.

Engineering

  • Parabolic shapes are often used in designing antennas because they can focus signals effectively.
  • In civil engineering, parabolic arches are strong structures, distributing weight evenly and providing stability.
  • The design of some bridges incorporates parabolic arcs to enhance durability and support heavy loads.

Art and Design

  • Artists sometimes use parabolic forms to create dynamic sculptures and installations, drawing the eye along curves.
  • Architecture may feature parabolic arches, providing both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.
  • Famous modern structures, like the Sydney Opera House, utilize parabolic shapes for both beauty and function.

History

  • The concept of parabolas was studied by ancient Greeks, especially by mathematicians like Apollonius of Perga.
  • In the Middle Ages, parabolic shapes were explored in the context of optics, influencing early lens design.
  • The mathematical study of parabolas paved the way for advancements in calculus and analytic geometry.

Origin of 'parabolic'

The word 'parabolic' comes from the Latin word 'parabola,' which in turn comes from the Greek word 'parabolฤ“,' meaning 'comparison.' The term was first used in the field of mathematics to describe the curve formed by the intersection of a cone and a plane parallel to one of the cone's sides. Over time, 'parabolic' has been adopted in physics and other fields to describe shapes or trajectories that resemble a parabola.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,404, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.