ellipse

noun

Definition of ellipsenext
as in oval
a shape that resembles a flattened circle The teacher drew an ellipse on the chalkboard that intended to illustrate the moon's orbit around the Earth.

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of ellipse This resonance dramatically stretches the planet’s orbit, turning it into a long, narrow ellipse. — Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 31 Jan. 2026 The double-ellipse frame now reveals the full architecture of the caliber DR002SR, while the watch preserves the classical proportions and architecture of the original. — Luisa Zargani, Footwear News, 19 Jan. 2026 Since the moon’s orbit around the Earth is not a perfect circle but rather an ellipse or oval, the moon’s distance from Earth can vary in its orbit, but not all that much. — Mike Lynch, Twin Cities, 5 Oct. 2025 The moon’s orbital path around Earth is a slight ellipse, so there’s a near-point (perigee) and a far-point (apogee) every month. — Jamie Carter, Forbes, 13 Oct. 2024 See All Example Sentences for ellipse
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ellipse
  1. oval
  2. egg
  3. orb
Noun
  • The oval takes center stage in sculptural 14-karat yellow gold links, some polished to a high shine, others outlined in natural-diamond pavé.
    — Lilah Ramzi, Vogue, 15 Oct. 2026
  • The estate’s outdoor spaces are equally inviting, with covered walkways winding through the picturesque grounds and connecting a deep oval swimming pool, an outdoor kitchen, and a bocce court.
    — Wendy Bowman, Robb Report, 13 Oct. 2026
Definition of oval
Noun
  • The best O’Hara acolytes are the ones who encourage us to see the beauty in the world, attuned to torsos on a New York Street or the majesty of making eggs for a loved one.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 13 Oct. 2026
  • As an abstract image of an egg appeared on screen, performers began walking toward the front of the theater in a transfixed, cult-like fashion.
    — Todd Martens, Los Angeles Times, 13 Oct. 2026
Definition of egg
Noun
  • Each pin is $18, and one buy gets you one egg-like orb with a mystery pin.
    — Todd Martens, Los Angeles Times, 6 Oct. 2026
  • The sandal was made unique with knotted strap and gold metallic orb details.
    — Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 5 Oct. 2026
Definition of orb

Browse Nearby Words

ell
ellipse
ellipses
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Cite this Entry

“Ellipse.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ellipse. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on ellipse

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about ellipse

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