Catenary (noun) Definition, Meaning & Examples

Admin
noun, plural cat·e·nar·ies.
  1. the curve assumed approximately by a heavy uniform cord or chain hanging freely from two points not in the same vertical line. Equation: y = kcosh(x/k).
  2. (in electric railroads) the cable, running above the track, from which the trolley wire is suspended.
adjective
  1. of, relating to, or resembling a catenary.
  2. of or relating to a chain or linked series.
noun plural -ries
  1. the curve assumed by a heavy uniform flexible cord hanging freely from two points. When symmetrical about the y- axis and intersecting it at y = a, the equation is y = a cosh x / a
  2. the hanging cable between pylons along a railway track, from which the trolley wire is suspended
adjective Also: catenarian (ˌkætɪˈnɛərɪən)
  1. of, resembling, relating to, or constructed using a catenary or suspended chain
Catenary (noun) Definition, Meaning & Examples

More Definitions