Curvature - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Curvature refers to the degree to which a line, surface, or object deviates from being straight or flat. It describes how much something bends or curves, like a winding road or a circle’s arc.
Definition:
The degree to which a curve deviates from being straight or flat.
Synonyms:
bend, curve, arc, arch
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
straightness, flatness
Common Collocations:
spinal curvature, space-time curvature, surface curvature
Derivatives:
curved, curving, curvaceous
Usage Tips:
Use "curvature" to describe the bending of lines or surfaces in geometry or physics.
Common Phrases:
curvature of the spine, radius of curvature, Gaussian curvature
Etymology:
From Latin "curvatura," meaning "a bending," derived from "curvare" (to bend).
Examples:
- 1. The road's curvature made driving challenging at high speeds.
- 2. The artist emphasized the gentle curvature of the vase in her sketch.
- 3. Scientists study the curvature of space-time in general relativity.
- 4. The spine's natural curvature helps absorb shock during movement.