elliptic
AdjectiveWordNet 3.0
Adjective (3)
- (of a leaf shape) in the form of an ellipse
- rounded like an eggSynonyms: egg-shapedellipticalovaloval-shapedovateoviformovoidprolate
- characterized by extreme economy of expression or omission of superfluous elements“the dialogue is elliptic and full of dark hints”“the explanation was concise, even elliptical to the verge of obscurity — H.O.Taylor”Synonyms: elliptical
Webster's Dictionary (GCIDE)
1.Of or pertaining to an ellipse; having the form of an ellipse; oblong, with rounded ends. [1913 Webster]
The planets move in elliptic orbits.— Cheyne.[1913 Webster]
The billiard sharp who any one catches, His doom's extremely hard He's made to dwell In a dungeon cell On a spot that's always barred. And there he plays extravagant matches In fitless finger-stalls On a cloth untrue With a twisted cue And elliptical billiard balls! --Gilbert and Sullivan (The Mikado: The More Humane Mikado Song)
2.Having a part omitted; as, an elliptical phrase. [1913 Webster]
3.leaving out information essential to comprehension; so concise as to be difficult to understand; obscure or ambiguous; -- of speech or writing; as, an elliptical comment. [PJC]
Elliptic chuck. See under Chuck.
Elliptic compasses, an instrument arranged for drawing ellipses.
Elliptic function. (Math.) See Function.
Elliptic integral. (Math.) See Integral.
Elliptic polarization. See under Polarization. [1913 Webster]