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Tangent Definition & Meaning

tangent
noun
  1. a straight line or plane that touches a curve or curved surface at a point but does not intersect it at that point
  2. ratio of the opposite to the adjacent side of a right-angled triangle

"Tangent" in song lyrics

See how tangent is used in real songs:

  • "wild tangent"
    AOL — AOL
  • "the function y x 4 bx 2 8x 1 has a horizontal tangent"
    AOL — AOL
  • "y x 4 bx 2 8x 1 calculus horizontal tangent"
    AOL — AOL

Usage tips for "tangent"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "tangent" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for tangent to find words that pair well.

Use "tangent" in a verse

Now that you know what "tangent" means, try using it in your own lyrics:

Generate a verse

Frequently asked questions

What does tangent mean?
a straight line or plane that touches a curve or curved surface at a point but does not intersect it at that point ratio of the opposite to the adjacent side of a right-angled triangle
What part of speech is tangent?
Tangent is a noun.
How many definitions does tangent have?
Tangent has 2 definitions across 1 part of speech (noun).

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