ENGLISH
REFERENCE

elliptic

adj.
C1 Advanced UK //ɪlˈɪptɪk// el·lip·tic

adj. describing something that is shaped like an oval or a flattened circle. In math, it also describes a curve that is longer in one direction than the other.

adj. having the form of an ellipse or resembling an ellipse in shape. In a mathematical context, it describes a curve generated by the intersection of a cone with a plane that is not parallel to the base or to its side.


SIMPLE

The planet follows an elliptic path around the sun.

CONTEXTUAL

The architect designed the stadium with an elliptic shape to ensure every seat has a clear view of the field.

COMPLEX

In celestial mechanics, the elliptic orbit of a satellite allows it to maintain a stable distance from the central body while varying its speed according to its position in the orbit.

Synonyms
Origin

From Ancient Greek ἐλλειπτικός (elleiptikós), from ἐλλείπω (elleípō, “I leave out, omit”). By surface analysis, ellipse + -tic.

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