asymptote

noun

as·​ymp·​tote ˈa-səm(p)-ˌtōt How to pronounce asymptote (audio)
: a straight line associated with a curve such that as a point moves along an infinite branch of the curve the distance from the point to the line approaches zero and the slope of the curve at the point approaches the slope of the line
asymptotic
ˌa-səm(p)-ˈtä-tik How to pronounce asymptote (audio)
adjective
asymptotically
ˌa-səm(p)-ˈtä-ti-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce asymptote (audio)
adverb

Illustration of asymptote

Illustration of asymptote
  • asymptotes to the hyperbola

Examples of asymptote in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
People will keep trying to reproduce all of that artificially, no doubt, because the asymptote of fidelity is a moneymaker. — Michael Owen, The Atlantic, 5 Feb. 2025 Even at a technical level, traditional pot still distillation is seemingly reaching the asymptote of its innovation curve. — Chris Perugini, Forbes, 16 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

probably from New Latin *asymptotus, from Greek asymptōtos not meeting, from a- + sympiptein to meet — more at symptom

First Known Use

1656, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of asymptote was in 1656

Rhymes for asymptote

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Browse Nearby Words

asymptomatic
asymptote
asymptotic curve
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Cite this Entry

“Asymptote.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/asymptote. Accessed 27 Mar. 2025.

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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about asymptote

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