Definition

The extent to which an object is flattened at the poles and bulging at the equator, making it look like a flattened sphere.

Example

The oblateness of the Earth affects satellite orbits and climate patterns.

Conversation

Have you ever heard about the oblateness of planets?

Yeah, I read that some are not perfectly round due to their rotation.

Exactly! It's interesting how gravity affects their shape and oblateness.

For sure! It makes you think about how unique each planet is.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Oblateness → It is formed from "oblate" (from Latin "oblatus", meaning offered up) and the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "oblateness" refers to the state of being offered up or the quality of being flattened at the poles, as in the shape of a sphere that is not perfectly round.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'offered up' ('oblate') and how that relates to its 'state' ('-ness') of being flattened or not perfectly round.

Visually Confused Words