Hyperbola

[haɪ'pɜːbələ] or [haɪ'pɝbələ]

Definition

(noun.) an open curve formed by a plane that cuts the base of a right circular cone.

Editor: Woodrow--From WordNet

Definition

(n.) A curve formed by a section of a cone, when the cutting plane makes a greater angle with the base than the side of the cone makes. It is a plane curve such that the difference of the distances from any point of it to two fixed points, called foci, is equal to a given distance. See Focus. If the cutting plane be produced so as to cut the opposite cone, another curve will be formed, which is also an hyperbola. Both curves are regarded as branches of the same hyperbola. See Illust. of Conic section, and Focus.

Checker: Wyatt

Definition

n. (geom.) one of the conic sections or curves formed when the intersecting plane makes a greater angle with the base than the side of the cone makes.—adjs. Hyperbol′ic -al.—adv. Hyperbol′ically.—adjs. Hyperbol′iform; Hyper′boloid.

Checker: Nicole