English Reference
noun · adjective

oval

n. · adj.
US /ˈoʊvəɫ/ UK /ˈəʊvəl/ oval UK spelling oval's, oval's

  1. 01 A2 Elementary Math

    n.a shape that looks like a circle that has been pulled or stretched; an egg shape.

    n.a closed convex curve resembling the outline of an egg or an ellipse.

    Simple

    The artist drew a large oval on the paper to start the face.

    In context

    The designer chose a perfect oval for the mirror's frame to soften the sharp vertical lines of the hallway.

    ellipseegg shape
  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate British EnglishDialect Sport

    n.a field used for sports like cricket or Australian rules football.

    n.a sports ground, typically one designed for cricket or Australian rules football, often characterized by its curved perimeter.

    Simple

    The whole town gathered at the oval to watch the weekend cricket match.

    In context

    Spectators began filling the historic oval hours before the first ball was bowled in the championship final.

    Usage

    Commonly used in Australia and the UK to refer to specific cricket or football grounds.

    Teacher's tip

    In Australia, 'the oval' is the standard term for the local sports field, whereas in the US, 'field' or 'stadium' is preferred.

  3. 03 A2 Elementary

    adj.having a rounded, long shape like an egg.

    adj.having the quality or form of an oval; elliptical in shape.

    Simple

    The dining room has a beautiful oval table that seats six people.

    In context

    The portrait was housed in an ornate oval frame, which highlighted the subject's delicate features more effectively than a standard rectangle.

    ellipticalovoid
This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Frequent
Updated