Tangent /(?)/
Tan·gent
Tangent
n.
- A tangent line curve, or surface; specifically, that portion of the straight line tangent to a curve that is between the point of tangency and a given line, the given line being, for example, the axis of abscissas, or a radius of a circle produced. See Trigonometrical function, under Function. (Geom.)
Phrases & Compounds
- Artificial tangent
- the logarithm of the natural tangent of an arc.
- Natural tangent
- a decimal expressing the length of the tangent of an arc, the radius being reckoned unity.
- Tangent galvanometer
- a form of galvanometer having a circular coil and a short needle, in which the tangent of the angle of deflection of the needle is proportional to the strength of the current.
- Tangent of an angle
- the natural tangent of the arc subtending or measuring the angle.
- Tangent of an arc
- a right line, as ta, touching the arc of a circle at one extremity a, and terminated by a line ct, passing from the center through the other extremity o.
Tangent
a.
- Touching; touching at a single point (Geom.)
Phrases & Compounds
- Tangent plane
- a plane which touches a surface in a point or line.
- Tangent scale
- a kind of breech sight for a cannon.
- Tangent screw
- an endless screw; a worm.