curvature

noun

cur·​va·​ture ˈkər-və-ˌchu̇r How to pronounce curvature (audio)
-chər,
-ˌtyu̇r,
-ˌtu̇r
1
: the act of curving : the state of being curved
2
: a measure or amount of curving
specifically : the rate of change of the angle through which the tangent to a curve turns in moving along the curve and which for a circle is equal to the reciprocal of the radius
3
a
: an abnormal curving (as of the spine)
b
: a curved surface of an organ

Examples of curvature in a Sentence

The lenses have different curvatures. the curvature of the earth The machine measures the eyeball's degree of curvature. a disease that can cause curvature of the spine
Recent Examples on the Web That's because the curvature of the Earth causes the particles to interact higher in the atmosphere, where oxygen is less plentiful, resulting in a more reddish hue. Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 21 Oct. 2024 At that altitude, the curvature of the earth and the blackness of outer space are clearly visible. Ben Coxworth, New Atlas, 24 Sep. 2024 Here’s a breakdown of what the different monitor curvatures look like. Anshel Sag, Forbes, 19 Sep. 2024 For back sleepers, medium-firm offers the balance of support and cushion to help the spine achieve its natural curvature. Claudia Fisher, SELF, 3 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for curvature 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'curvature.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1603, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of curvature was in 1603

Dictionary Entries Near curvature

Cite this Entry

“Curvature.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/curvature. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

curvature

noun
cur·​va·​ture ˈkər-və-ˌchu̇(ə)r How to pronounce curvature (audio)
-chər
1
: the act of curving : the state of being curved
2
: an abnormal curving
curvature of the spine

Medical Definition

curvature

noun
1
: an abnormal curving (as of the spine) see kyphosis, scoliosis
2
: a curved surface of an organ (as the stomach) see greater curvature, lesser curvature

More from Merriam-Webster on curvature

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