conic section: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low (primarily technical/academic)Formal, Technical, Academic
Quick answer
What does “conic section” mean?
A curve obtained as the intersection of the surface of a cone with a plane.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A curve obtained as the intersection of the surface of a cone with a plane.
In geometry, any of the curves (circle, ellipse, parabola, hyperbola) formed by slicing a right circular conical surface with a plane; in broader usage, can refer to the study of these curves and their properties.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage; the term is standard in the technical lexicon of both varieties.
Connotations
Purely technical and academic in both contexts.
Frequency
Equally low and specialised in both varieties, appearing almost exclusively in mathematical, engineering, and scientific contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “conic section” in a Sentence
The parabola is [a conic section].To identify [the conic section] from its equation.They studied [the properties of conic sections].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “conic section” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The conic-section properties were derived.
- A conic-section approach to the problem.
American English
- The conic-section properties were derived.
- A conic-section approach was used.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Central term in mathematics, analytic geometry, physics (orbital mechanics), and engineering courses.
Everyday
Extremely rare; only in highly specific educational or hobbyist discussions.
Technical
Precise term used in mathematics, astronomy, physics, optics, and engineering design.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “conic section”
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “conic section”
- Using 'conic' as a verb (e.g., 'conic the shape').
- Confusing 'conic section' with 'cone' itself or a 3D shape.
- Misspelling as 'chronic section'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
The circle, ellipse, parabola, and hyperbola.
Yes, but it is considered a 'degenerate' conic section, formed when the cutting plane passes through the apex of the cone.
They are used in astronomy (planetary orbits are ellipses), engineering (parabolic mirrors and antennas), architecture (arches), and many other fields.
The general second-degree equation: Ax² + Bxy + Cy² + Dx + Ey + F = 0, where the values of A, B, and C determine the type of conic.
A curve obtained as the intersection of the surface of a cone with a plane.
Conic section is usually formal, technical, academic in register.
Conic section: in British English it is pronounced /ˌkɒnɪk ˈsɛkʃ(ə)n/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌkɑːnɪk ˈsɛkʃən/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a CONE being SECTIONed by a knife (plane). The cut makes a shape: circle, ellipse, parabola, or hyperbola.
Conceptual Metaphor
SHAPES AS CROSS-SECTIONS OF A SOLID; PATHS AS SLICES.
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is NOT a conic section?