curve

curve · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A line that bends smoothly without angles.

  2. 2.

    To form or cause to form a curve.

  3. 3.

    A rounded shape or outline.

  4. 4.

    To move in a curving path.

  5. 5.

    (mathematics) A continuously bending line.

  6. 6.

    (informal, usually plural) The rounded contours of a person's body.

Forms

plural: curves

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    throw a curve — to surprise with something unexpected
  • •
    curveball — an unexpected event or a type of baseball pitch
  • •
    learning curve — the rate of progress in learning something
  • •
    ahead of the curve — ahead of current trends
  • •
    behind the curve — lagging behind trends

Related words

Antonyms: straight line
See also: arc, bend, curves
Synonyms: arc, bend, bow, turn

Etymology

From Latin "curvus" (bent, curved), related to "corona" (crown, circle).