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Definitions

elliptical

[ih-lip-ti-kuhl] / ɪˈlɪp tɪ kəl /
ADJECTIVE
oval-shaped
Synonyms


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Some exoplanets follow highly elliptical orbits, meaning the amount of heat they receive from their star changes significantly over time.

From Science Daily • Mar. 25, 2026

This elliptical approach is in part its strength, subtly illuminating how trying to move past one tragedy may bring a family to the precipice of another.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 12, 2026

The Moon does not orbit the earth in a perfect circle but has more of an egg-shaped, elliptical orbit.

From BBC • Nov. 2, 2025

The Moon's orbit around the Earth is not circular but elliptical, meaning that the distance between the two varies throughout the year.

From BBC • Oct. 4, 2025

While the planets move in elliptical orbits around the Sun, their orbits are not very elliptical.

From "Cosmos" by Carl Sagan




Vocabulary lists containing elliptical


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