Parabola

Pronunciation: /pəˈræbələ/

Definitions of parabola

noun a symmetrical open plane curve formed by the intersection of a cone with a plane parallel to its side

Example Sentences

A1 A parabola is a type of curve.

A2 In math, we learn about parabolas and how to graph them.

B1 The path of a thrown ball can be described by a parabola.

B2 Understanding the vertex of a parabola is crucial in solving quadratic equations.

C1 The focus and directrix are important elements in the definition of a parabola.

C2 The equation of a parabola can be written in different forms depending on its orientation.

Examples of parabola in a Sentence

formal The parabola is a type of conic section that is defined by a quadratic equation.

informal Dude, did you see how the basketball made a parabola when it was shot into the hoop?

slang The skater's jump created a sick parabola in the air.

figurative Her career trajectory followed a parabola, starting slow but eventually reaching great heights.

Grammatical Forms of parabola

• past tense: parabolaed
• plural: parabolas
• comparative: more parabolic
• superlative: most parabolic
• present tense: parabolas
• future tense: will parabola
• perfect tense: have parabolaed
• continuous tense: is parabolaing
• singular: parabola
• positive degree: parabola
• infinitive: to parabola
• gerund: parabolaing
• participle: parabolaed

Origin and Evolution of parabola

First Known Use: 1601 year

Language of Origin: Greek

Story behind the word: The word 'parabola' originates from the Greek word 'parabolē', which means 'comparison' or 'analogy'. It was used in relation to conic sections by ancient Greek mathematicians.

Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'parabola' has come to specifically refer to a type of curve in mathematics that is symmetric and opens upwards. Its usage has evolved to become a standard term in geometry and algebra.