Ellipse
/ɪˈlɪps/noun
A geometric figure that is a closed curve around two focal points.
Did you know?In ancient geometry, the ellipse was linked to celestial orbits, symbolizing the dance of planets around the sun—a mystical manifestation of cosmic harmony.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἔλλειψις
“A falling short or leaving out.”
Late Latin
Latin
ellipsi
“The act of falling short.”
Medieval Latin
Medieval Latin
ellipsa
“The term for the geometric figure.”
16th Century
English
ellipse
“Adopted into English, used to describe the shape of an oval.”