hyperbola

noun

hy·​per·​bo·​la hī-ˈpər-bə-lə How to pronounce hyperbola (audio)
plural hyperbolas or hyperbolae hī-ˈpər-bə-(ˌ)lē How to pronounce hyperbola (audio)
: a plane curve generated by a point so moving that the difference of the distances from two fixed points is a constant : a curve formed by the intersection of a double right circular cone with a plane that cuts both halves of the cone

Illustration of hyperbola

Illustration of hyperbola
  • AB CD axes
  • F F′ foci
  • xy zw asymptotes
  • h h′ h″ h′′′ hyperbola

Examples of hyperbola 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.
When those arcs in the corners are drawn using hyperbolas, the total coverage is about 90.24%. — Quanta Magazine, 28 June 2024 The rounded points are traced with hyperbolas — curves that shave off as much area as possible without messing with the packing. — Quanta Magazine, 28 June 2024

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek hyperbolē

First Known Use

1668, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hyperbola was in 1668

Phrases Containing hyperbola

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Cite this Entry

“Hyperbola.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hyperbola. Accessed 21 Mar. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on hyperbola

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about hyperbola

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