Catenary

Pronunciation

• UK IPA: /kəˈtiːn.əɹi/, /kəˈtÉ›n.æɹi/
• US IPA: /'kæt n ˌɛɹ i/

Origin

From Late Latin catenaria, in turn from Latin catēna ("chain"). Attested since 1788.

Full definition of catenary

Adjective

1. Relating to a chain; like a chain.

Noun

1. (geometry) The curve described by a flexible chain or a rope if it is supported at each end and is acted upon only by no other forces than a uniform gravitational force due to its own weight.
2. (nautical) The curve of an anchor cable from the seabed to the vessel; it should be horizontal at the anchor so as to bury the flukes.
3. A system of overhead power lines that provide trains, trolleys, buses, etc., with electricity, having a straight conductor wire and a bowed suspension cable.File:Catenary-pm.png|Diagram of geometric representation of catenariesFile: Floating loose mooring catenary plain.svg|Example of a bouy floating in the water with the mooring lines being in catenary curve shapesFile:Oberleitung der italienischen Bahn am Bahnhof Lucca.jpg|Catenary cable for a railroad line.