translational
adj.relating to the movement of an object in a straight line without rotating. In physics, it describes how an object moves from one place to another without changing its direction.
adj.relating to the movement of a body in a straight line without rotation. Often used in the context of mechanics to describe linear motion as opposed to rotational motion.
“The translational motion of the car is smooth.”
“Engineers must account for both translational and rotational forces when designing the suspension system for a high-speed train.”
“The translational velocity of the satellite remains constant in the absence of external forces, while its rotational speed may vary depending on the torque applied by its onboard thrusters.”
“To evaluate the translational potential of the approach, the researchers tested the therapy in cynomolgus macaques, whose sleep-wake patterns more closely resemble those of humans.”
“The team is also working with Eyelumina,a spin-off company in formation to secure investments that support translational development and future clinical trials.”
Common in science writing
From translation + -al.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.