# parabolic

/ˌpɛɹəˈbɑɫɪk/ (US) · /pˌæɹəbˈɒlɪk/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/parabolic
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

shaped like a curve that is wide in the middle and narrows at the ends. You often see this shape in math or when looking at the path of a thrown ball.

For teachers: relating to or having the shape of a parabola, a U-shaped curve. In mathematics, it describes a quadratic function; in physics, it describes the trajectory of a projectile under gravity.

## Examples

- The satellite dish has a parabolic shape to focus the signal.
- The architect used a parabolic arch to distribute the weight of the bridge more evenly across the supports.
- The parabolic mirror in the telescope collects and focuses light from distant stars, allowing astronomers to observe celestial bodies with much greater clarity than the naked eye.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.