What does parabolic mean?
Parabolic describes something governed by, shaped like, or relating to a parabola. A parabola is a symmetrical plane curve whose points are equally distant from a fixed point and a fixed straight line called the directrix. Its familiar image is the arc traced by a thrown ball when air resistance is ignored, although the curve also appears in satellite trajectories, telescope and antenna reflectors, and mathematical equations involving a squared variable. The word is especially common in technical contexts such as physics and engineering, where it identifies a precise mathematical or geometric relationship rather than merely a vaguely curved shape. In general writing, “parabolic” can lend an impression of precision and scientific formality. It is related etymologically to parabola, the noun naming the curve, while the adverb parabolically describes how an action or condition is performed in a parabolic manner.
adjectiveRelating to, shaped like, or characteristic of a parabola, a plane curve whose points are equidistant from a fixed point and a fixed line. In mathematics, physics, and engineering, the term describes objects, motions, or equations governed by parabolic relationships.
- Relating to a parabola or to a mathematical equation in which a variable is squared.
- Shaped like or resembling a parabola, especially as a reflector, trajectory, or architectural form.
"The parabolic reflector focuses radio waves onto the satellite dish's receiver."
"The population growth followed a parabolic curve over the first three decades."
"The engineer designed a parabolic antenna to concentrate the radio signal."
From the Greek idea of placing one thing beside another to the arc of a thrown ball: parabolic turns geometry into motion.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does parabolic come from?
The word comes through Latin parabolicus from Greek parabolikos, an adjective derived from parabole, meaning a comparison or a placing side by side. The geometric term originally referred to a method of comparing geometric areas, and “parabolic” entered English in the early 17th century in mathematical usage. Related English words include parabola, the curve itself, and paraboloid, a surface generated from a parabola.
Related word forms
How parabolic is actually used
This is primarily a formal, technical term used in mathematics, physics, astronomy, and engineering. Outside those fields, it is often encountered through descriptions of antennas, spacecraft trajectories, and other forms governed by a parabolic relationship.
Easily confused with parabolic
A parabola is a geometric curve, whereas a parable is a short story that teaches a moral or spiritual lesson.