parabolic

¹

[ par-uh-bol-ik ]

adjective

1. having the form or outline of a parabola.
2. having a longitudinal section in the form of a paraboloid or parabola:

   a parabolic reflector.

3. of or relating to a parabola.

parabolic

²

[ par-uh-bol-ik ]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or involving a parable.

parabolic

¹

/ ˌpærəˈbɒlɪk /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or shaped like a parabola
2. shaped like a paraboloid

   a parabolic mirror

parabolic

²

/ ˌpærəˈbɒlɪk /

adjective

1. of or resembling a parable

Derived Forms

• ˌparaˈbolically, adverb

Other Words From

• para·boli·cal·ism noun
• para·boli·cal·ly adverb
• nonpar·a·boli·cal adjective
• nonpar·a·boli·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of parabolic¹

First recorded in 1695–1705; parabol(a) + -ic

Origin of parabolic²

1650–60; < Late Latin parabolicus metaphoric < Late Greek parabolikós figurative, equivalent to Greek parabol ( ḗ ) parable + -ikos -ic

Example Sentences

One can certainly discuss this limited series divorced from other critically acclaimed shows, but it’s more interesting to view it as part of a continuum that speaks to our present, whether thematically or parabolically.

From Salon

Thus, they hope to conduct future studies in true microgravity conditions, such as parabolic flights.

From Science Daily

On a parabolic flight last year, where John experienced weightlessness for the first time, he found his day-to-day, hi-tech, microprocessor prosthetic leg would need recalibrating.

From BBC

Flames and sandals make for an impressive spectacle, and while the priestess’ largely tongue-in-cheek prayer to Apollo might not be answered, the parabolic mirror works well.

From Seattle Times

She then dips the fuel-filled torch into a parabolic mirror which focuses the sun’s rays on it, and fire spurts forth.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• figurative
• metaphorical