Definition

A line that gets closer and closer to a curve but never actually touches it, even as the curve extends infinitely.

Example

In mathematics, an asymptote is used to describe the behavior of a curve as it approaches a line.

Conversation

I was studying some math and came across the term asymptote.

Oh, I remember that from calculus! It's interesting how it relates to graphs.

Right? I find it fascinating that the curve gets so close but never actually touches the asymptote.

Exactly! It's like a line that's always just out of reach.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Asymptote → It is formed from "a-" (meaning not) and "symptōtikos" (from Greek, meaning falling together). The word describes a line that does not meet or touch a curve, hence it is 'not falling together' with the curve.

Memory Tip

Think of a line that is 'not' ('a-') meeting or 'falling together' ('symptōtikos') with a curve — that's what an asymptote represents.

Visually Confused Words