PROLATE Meaning and
Definition
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Prolate is an adjective used to describe a particular shape or form that is elongated or elongated in the direction of its main axis. The term originates from the Latin word "pro" meaning forward or ahead, and "latus" meaning side. In general usage, prolate is often used to describe objects that are stretched, elongated, or extended in a lengthwise manner.
In scientific contexts, prolate commonly refers to an ellipsoidal shape where one axis is longer than the other two axes, creating a stretching effect. This shape can be observed in diverse fields such as mathematics, physics, biology, and optics. For example, in mathematics, a prolate spheroid is a three-dimensional shape obtained by rotating an ellipse around its longer axis. In physics, prolate nuclei are atomic nuclei that exhibit an elongation along their major axis.
Furthermore, prolate is also frequently used in describing certain fruits, for instance, prolate spheroid or prolate ellipsoid fruits, which are elongated and have a shape resembling an elliptical cylinder. In optics, prolate lenses are lenses having one convex and one concave surface that converge light towards a focal point, often utilized in various optical instruments for manipulating light rays.
Overall, the term prolate indicates an elongated or stretched shape, whether it pertains to objects, geometrical figures, biological structures, or optical elements.
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Lengthened; extended beyond the line of an exact sphere.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PROLATE
- orolate
- lrolate
- 0rolate
- peolate
- pdolate
- pfolate
- ptolate
- p5olate
- p4olate
- prklate
- prllate
- prplate
- pr0late
- pr9late
- prokate
- prooate
- prolzte
- prolste
- prolwte
Etymology of PROLATE
The word "prolate" comes from the Latin word "prolatus", which is the past participle of the verb "proferre". "Proferre" is a combination of the prefix "pro-", meaning "forward", and "ferre", meaning "to bring" or "to bear". Therefore, "prolate" can be understood to literally mean "to bring forward" or "to extend". This term is often used in reference to shapes or objects that have been elongated or stretched out.
Similar spelling words for PROLATE
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