asymptotic

[ as-im-tot-ik ]

adjective

, Mathematics.

1. of or relating to an asymptote.
2. (of a function) approaching a given value as an expression containing a variable tends to infinity.
3. (of two functions) so defined that their ratio approaches unity as the independent variable approaches a limit or infinity.
4. (of a formula) becoming increasingly exact as a variable approaches a limit, usually infinity.
5. coming into consideration as a variable approaches a limit, usually infinity:

   asymptotic property; asymptotic behavior.

asymptotic

/ ˌæsɪmˈtɒtɪk /

adjective

1. of or referring to an asymptote
2. (of a function, series, formula, etc) approaching a given value or condition, as a variable or an expression containing a variable approaches a limit, usually infinity

Derived Forms

• ˌasympˈtotically, adverb

Other Words From

• as·ymp·tot·i·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of asymptotic¹

First recorded in 1665–75; asymptot(e) + -ic

Example Sentences

The challenge of tracing early mild cases, particularly with a disease which we now know can be asymptotic, is not unique to China.

From BBC

Wilczek was still a graduate student at Princeton when he and David Gross developed the theory of asymptotic freedom, an explanation for the way quarks interact with one another inside the nucleus of an atom, clarifying the workings of the strong force, also called quantum chromodynamics.

From New York Times

The lack of testing and not being able to identify whether someone has been infected and is asymptotic poses a huge threat to these tight-knight communities, Gonzalez said.

From Fox News

And so I hope to help drill this into other people’s heads: Any of us might already have it and be asymptotic, or presymptomatic.

From Los Angeles Times

One thing I have been experiencing is the loss of taste and smell, which I think is a big sign for people who are otherwise asymptotic.

From Los Angeles Times