lemniscate

[ lem-nis-kit, lem-nis-keyt, -kit ]

noun

, Analytic Geometry.

1. a plane curve generated by the locus of the point at which a variable tangent to a rectangular hyperbola intersects a perpendicular from the center to the tangent. Equation: r 2 = 2 a 2 cosθ.

lemniscate

/ ˈlɛmnɪskɪt /

noun

1. a closed plane curve consisting of two symmetrical loops meeting at a node. Equation: ( x ² + y ²)² = a ²( x ² – y ²), where a is the greatest distance from the curve to the origin. The symbol for infinity (∞) is an example

Word History and Origins

Origin of lemniscate¹

First recorded in 1775–85, lemniscate is from the Latin word lēmniscātus adorned with ribbons. See lemniscus, -ate ¹

Example Sentences

Our bodies in motion are defined by a unified alchemy of speed and direction, as we trace parabolas, lemniscates, trident curves, Poinsot’s spirals, and trajectories that have no mathematical names.

From The New Yorker

B. Thus we have tabulated in all 65 chemical elements, or chemical atoms, completing three of Sir William Crookes' lemniscates, sufficient for some amount of generalization.

From Project Gutenberg

Blavatsky, as to how the chemical elements were deposited by a spiral evolutive force, a creative impulse working outward in the form of a caduceus or lemniscate, or figure '8.'

From Project Gutenberg

Some projective-geometrical considerations concerning the lemniscate are to be found in the previously mentioned writings of G. Adams and L. Locher-Ernst.

From Project Gutenberg

We have now reached the last of the groups as arranged on Sir William Crookes' lemniscates, that forming the "neutral" column; it is headed by helium, which is sui generis.

From Project Gutenberg