adjective
- having the shape of an ellipse; oval
- omitting words that are understood from context; concise to the point of obscurity
Usage: geometry; mathematics
Usage: grammar; linguistics
Examples
- The planet’s elliptical orbit takes it farther from the sun at certain times.
- She drew an elliptical shape on the paper.
- The elliptical machine at the gym provides a good cardio workout.
- His elliptical writing style left readers confused about his meaning.
- The professor’s elliptical explanation skipped several important steps.
- The garden featured an elliptical pond surrounded by flowers.
- Her elliptical response avoided answering the direct question.