Spherical

/ˈsfɛr.ɪ.kəl/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
Having the shape or characteristics of a sphere; round.
The earth is not a perfect sphere, but it is approximately spherical in shape.
Relating to the geometry of a sphere.
Spherical coordinates are used in three-dimensional space to represent points based on distance and angles.
Pertaining to or resembling a sphere.
The planets in our solar system follow approximately spherical orbits around the sun.

Etymology

From Middle English 'sphericall', from Latin 'sphaericus', from Greek 'sphairikos' from 'sphaira' meaning sphere.

Common Phrases and Expressions

spherical coordinates
A coordinate system for representing points in three-dimensional space.
spherical harmonics
Functions that arise in the solution to problems involving the Laplace equation in spherical coordinates.

Related Words

sphere
A perfectly round three-dimensional object.
spheroid
An object shaped like a sphere but slightly flattened.
sphericity
The quality of being spherical.

Slang Meanings