catenary Meaning & Definition
What Does Catenary Mean?
Catenary is an adjective that means Relating to a chain; like a chain. It can also mean Relating to a catena. As a noun, it means The curve described by a flexible chain or a rope if it is supported at each end and is acted upon by no other forces than a uniform gravitational force due to its own weight and variations involving additional and non-uniform forces. It is described by the hyperbolic cosine function.
Catenary: Key Facts
| Part of speech | adjective, noun |
|---|---|
| Pronunciation | /kəˈtiːnəɹi/ |
| Plural | catenaries |
| Comparative / superlative | more catenary, most catenary |
Catenary Definition (Adjective)
- Relating to a chain; like a chain.
- Relating to a catena.
Catenary as a Noun
- The curve described by a flexible chain or a rope if it is supported at each end and is acted upon by no other forces than a uniform gravitational force due to its own weight and variations involving additional and non-uniform forces. It is described by the hyperbolic cosine function.
- Any physical cable, rope, chain, or other weight-supporting structure taking such geometric shape, as a suspension cable for a bridge or a power-transmission line or an arch for a bridge or roof.
- The curve of an anchor cable from the seabed to the vessel; it should be horizontal at the anchor so as to bury the flukes.
- A cable, the segments of which between supports take a catenary geometric shape, supporting in turn an overhead conductor that provides trains, trams or trolley buses with electricity, or the combination of the conductor, the cable, and supports.
Synonyms of Catenary
The source does not list synonyms for this entry.
Catenary synonyms and antonyms →Word Forms & Grammar
catenary (comparative more catenary, superlative most catenary)
catenary (plural catenaries)
Origin of Catenary
Origin 1: From Latin catenarius, from Latin catēna (“chain”).
Origin 2: From Late Latin catenaria, in turn from Latin catēna (“chain”). Attested since 1788.
Frequently Asked Questions About Catenary
Is catenary an adjective or a noun?
Catenary is mainly used as an adjective, but it can also be used as a noun.
What is the plural of catenary?
The plural of catenary is catenaries.
What are the comparative and superlative forms of catenary?
The comparative form is more catenary and the superlative form is most catenary.