Definition of Tangent
Tangent
tan·gent
Definition/Meaning
(noun)
A line or curve that touches but does not intersect a circle or curve.
e.g. The mathematician drew a tangent to the circle to calculate its slope.
(noun)
a straight line that touches a curved line or surface at one point and does not intersect it even when extended;
e.g. The ground functions as a tangent to a circular wheel rolling on it.
(noun)
(mathematics) the ratio between the sides that are opposite and adjacent to a particular angle in a right angled triangle, serving as a trigonometric function;
e.g. If you find the tangent of this angle, it will help you solve the problem.
(adjective)
touching a curve or a curved surface but not intersecting with it;
e.g. He drew a tangent ray on the geometric diagram.
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