Catenary (Noun)
Meaning
The curve theoretically assumed by a perfectly flexible and inextensible cord of uniform density and cross section hanging freely from two fixed points.
Classification
Nouns denoting two and three dimensional shapes.
Examples
- The shape of the power lines between the two towers formed a perfect catenary, a testament to the engineer's skill.
- The artist's installation featured a series of suspended lights that followed the gentle curve of a catenary, creating a sense of movement and flow.
- The physicist explained that the chain hanging from the ceiling was a classic example of a catenary, with its curve determined by the balance of gravity and tension.
- The architect designed the suspension bridge with a catenary curve, allowing the roadway to dip slightly in the middle and rise at the ends.
- The mathematician used the equation of a catenary to model the shape of the spider's web, which was surprisingly close to the actual shape observed in nature.