cat·e·nar·y (k t n- r  , k -tn-r)n. pl. cat·e·nar·ies 1. The curve formed by a perfectly flexible, uniformly dense, and inextensible cable suspended from its endpoints. It is identical to the graph of a hyperbolic cosine. 2. Something having the general shape of this curve. [New Latin cat n ria, from Latin, feminine of catnrius, relating to a chain, from catna, chain.]cat e·nary adj. |   the equation for this catenary in rectangular coordinates, with a as the y-intercept is: y = ( a/2 ) (ex/a+ e-x/a) |
catenary [kəˈtiːnərɪ]
n pl -ries
1. (Mathematics) the curve assumed by a heavy uniform flexible cord hanging freely from two points. When symmetrical about the y-axis and intersecting it at y = a, the equation is y = a cosh x/a
2. (Transport / Railways) the hanging cable between pylons along a railway track, from which the trolley wire is suspended
adj also catenarian [ˌkætɪˈnɛərɪən]
(Engineering / Civil Engineering) of, resembling, relating to, or constructed using a catenary or suspended chain
[from Latin catēnārius relating to a chain]
ThesaurusLegend: Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
| Noun | 1. |  catenary - the curve theoretically assumed by a perfectly flexible and inextensible cord of uniform density and cross section hanging freely from two fixed pointscurve, curved shape - the trace of a point whose direction of motion changes |
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