parabola

[pəˈræbələ]

parabola Definition

a symmetrical open plane curve formed by the intersection of a cone with a plane parallel to its side. The path of a projectile under the influence of gravity ideally follows a curve of this shape..

Using parabola: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "parabola" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The water from the fountain follows a parabolic path.

  • Example

    The trajectory of the ball was a parabola.

  • Example

    The satellite's orbit is a parabola.

parabola Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for parabola

Phrases with parabola

  • a mirror that has a parabolic shape and is used to focus light or sound waves

    Example

    The telescope uses a parabolic mirror to reflect and focus light.

  • an antenna that uses a parabolic reflector to direct radio waves

    Example

    The satellite dish on the roof is a parabolic antenna.

  • a microphone that uses a parabolic reflector to capture sound waves from a distance

    Example

    The reporter used a parabolic microphone to record the sound of the crowd.

Origins of parabola

from Greek 'parabolē', meaning 'comparison'

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Summary: parabola in Brief

A 'parabola' [pəˈræbələ] is a symmetrical open plane curve formed by the intersection of a cone with a plane parallel to its side. It is often used to describe the path of a projectile under the influence of gravity, as in 'The trajectory of the ball was a parabola.' Other examples include 'The water from the fountain follows a parabolic path.' and 'The satellite's orbit is a parabola.'