Definition

The quality or state of being elliptical, which means being shaped like an ellipse rather than a perfect circle or sphere.

Example

The ellipticity of the planet affects its gravitational field.

Conversation

Have you ever heard about ellipticity in astronomy?

Yeah, I think it refers to how some orbits aren't perfectly circular.

Exactly! The more ellipticity there is, the more stretched out the orbit is.

That makes sense! It’s fascinating how these concepts affect the movement of planets.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ellipticity is formed from "ellipse" (from Greek "elleipsis", meaning a falling short or deficiency) and the suffix "-ity" (meaning the state or condition of). The word describes the state or condition of being elliptical, or having the shape of an ellipse.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'ellipse' which refers to a specific shape, and remember that 'ellipticity' describes the condition of having that shape.

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