'Elliptic function' definitions:

Definition of 'Elliptic function'

From: GCIDE
  • Elliptic \El*lip"tic\, Elliptical \El*lip"tic*al\, a. [Gr. ?: cf. F. elliptique. See Ellipsis.]
  • 1. Of or pertaining to an ellipse; having the form of an ellipse; oblong, with rounded ends. [1913 Webster]
  • The planets move in elliptic orbits. --Cheyne. [1913 Webster]
  • The billiard sharp who any one catches, His doom's extremely hard He's made to dwell In a dungeon cell On a spot that's always barred. And there he plays extravagant matches In fitless finger-stalls On a cloth untrue With a twisted cue And elliptical billiard balls! --Gilbert and Sullivan (The Mikado: The More Humane Mikado Song)
  • 2. Having a part omitted; as, an elliptical phrase. [1913 Webster]
  • 3. leaving out information essential to comprehension; so concise as to be difficult to understand; obscure or ambiguous; -- of speech or writing; as, an elliptical comment. [PJC]
  • Elliptic chuck. See under Chuck.
  • Elliptic compasses, an instrument arranged for drawing ellipses.
  • Elliptic function. (Math.) See Function.
  • Elliptic integral. (Math.) See Integral.
  • Elliptic polarization. See under Polarization. [1913 Webster]

Words containing 'Elliptic function'