prolate

[ proh-leyt ]

adjective

1. elongated along the polar diameter, as a spheroid generated by the revolution of an ellipse about its longer axis ( oblate ).

prolate

/ ˈprəʊleɪt /

adjective

1. See oblate
   having a polar diameter of greater length than the equatorial diameter Compare oblate 1

Derived Forms

• ˈprolateness, noun
• ˈprolately, adverb

Other Words From

• prolate·ly adverb
• prolate·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of prolate¹

1685–95; < Latin prōlātus, past participle of prōferre to bring forward, extend; pro- ¹, oblate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of prolate¹

C17: from Latin prōferre to enlarge

Example Sentences

The immediate inference from this was that, the degree diminishing with increasing latitude, the earth must be a prolate spheroid.

From Project Gutenberg

The prolate or lemon-like shape is caused by the gravitative pull of the earth, balanced by the centrifugal whirl.

From Project Gutenberg

Each disk has become prolate in the same sort of fashion as yielding globes do.

From Project Gutenberg

Two spheres revolving round each other can only remain spherical if rigid; if at all plastic they become prolate.

From Project Gutenberg

Mr. Murphy invites attention and objection to some assertions, as that the earth is prolate, not oblate.

From Project Gutenberg