sb. and a. [ad. L. catēnāri-us relating to a chain, f. catēna chain.]

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  A.  sb. Math. [mod.L. catenaria.] The curve formed by a chain or rope of uniform density hanging freely from two fixed points not in the same vertical line. The common catenary is the curve so formed by a chain of uniform thickness.

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1788.  T. Jefferson, Writ. (1859), II. 546. Every part of a catenary is in perfect equilibrium.

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1798.  Hutton, Course Math. (1828), II. 175. A heavy flexible cord or chain, left to adjust itself into a hanging catenary.

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1856.  Ruskin, Mod. Paint., IV. V. xvii. § 12. One of the most beautifully gradated natural curves—called the catenary.

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  B.  adj.

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  1.  Math. Catenary curve = CATENARY; see A.

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1872.  Ruskin, Eagle’s N., § 139. The parabolas of … waterfalls and fountains … the catenary curves of their falling festoons.

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1887.  T. Hardy, Woodlanders, I. i. 6. A hook to which the reins were hitched at times, forming a catenary curve from the horse’s shoulders.

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  2.  Relating to a catena or series.

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1855.  I. Taylor, Restor. Belief, 221. By processes of catenary deduction.

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