tangent /tanˈjənt/ noun- A line that touches a curve
- The limiting case of a secant when the two points of intersection coincide (mathematics)
- One of the six trigonometrical functions of an angle, the ratio of the side of a right-angled triangle opposite the given angle to the side opposite the other acute angle (abbrev tan)
- The striking-pin of a clavichord
adjective- Of or involving a tangent
- Touching without intersecting
ORIGIN: L tangens, -entis, prp of tangere to touch tanˈgency /-jən-si/ noun - Fact of being tangent
- A contact or touching
tangential /-jenˈshəl/ adjective - Of a tangent
- In the direction of a tangent
- Peripheral, incidental, irrelevant (figurative)
tangentiality /tan-jen-shi-alˈi-ti/ noun tangenˈtially or tangenˈtally adverb In the direction of a tangent tangent galvanometer noun A galvanometer with a vertical circular coil and a horizontal magnetic needle, which measures a current passed through it by assessing the magnetic field produced which deflects the needle at a tangent - In the direction of the tangent
- In a divergent train of thought or action
- In continuation in the momentary direction instead of following the general course
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