To save this word, you'll need to log in.
as·ymp·tote | \ ˈa-səm(p)-ˌtōt 
\
\Definition of asymptote
: a straight line associated with a curve such that as a point moves along an infinite branch of the curve the distance from the point to the line approaches zero and the slope of the curve at the point approaches the slope of the line
Illustration of asymptote
asymptotes to the hyperbola
Other Words from asymptote
asymptotic \ ˌa-səm(p)-ˈtä-tik \ adjective
\ adjectiveasymptotically \ ˌa-səm(p)-ˈtä-ti-k(ə-)lē \ adverb
\ adverbKeep scrolling for more
Comments on asymptote
What made you want to look up asymptote? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
Name that Thing: Flower Edition
- Name that flower
Can you spell these 10 commonly misspelled words?
TAKE THE QUIZ
Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridgedWords at Play
Ask the Editors
Share asymptote
Time Traveler for asymptote
The first known use of asymptote was in 1656
See more words from the same year