vertical etymology

Etymology

The term "vertical" is derived from the Latin word "vertex," meaning "top," "summit," or "crown."

Meaning

In geometry, "vertical" refers to a line, plane, or surface that is perpendicular to the horizontal plane or parallel to the plumb line, representing the direction of gravity. It is used to indicate an upright position or an orientation perpendicular to the ground.

Origin

The concept of verticality has its roots in ancient times. In astronomy, the zenith, the point directly overhead, was considered the vertical direction from any point on the Earth's surface. In architecture, the vertical axis determined the symmetry and stability of buildings.

Applications

The term "vertical" is commonly used in various fields, such as:

  • Geometry: To describe lines, planes, and surfaces that are perpendicular to the horizontal plane.
  • Architecture: To refer to the height and orientation of buildings, structures, and elements.
  • Engineering: To indicate the vertical load-bearing capacity of structures and materials.
  • Aviation: To describe the ascent and descent of aircraft.
  • Geography: To indicate the elevation and altitude of landforms.
  • Medicine: To describe the position and alignment of body parts.

vertical relate terms

  • vertex

    Etymology Middle English verteis from Latin vertex Meaning The highest point of

  • upright

    Etymology The word upright is derived from two Old English words Up Meaning towar

  • perpendicular

    Etymology and Meaning The word perpendicular comes from the Latin words per through

  • upright

    Etymology The word upright is derived from two Old English words Up Meaning towar

  • bluff

    Etymology The word bluff has several possible origins French bluffer to deceive

  • turbine

    Etymology Latin turbo turbinis spinning top whirlwind Greek τύρβη turbē

  • jigsaw

    Etymology The word jigsaw is derived from the two words jig and saw Jig A templ

  • gnomon

    Etymology The word gnomon is derived from the Greek word gnōmōn which means indi

  • scantling

    Etymology From Middle English scantling meaning a thin piece or strip of wood or me

  • space

    Origin The word space is derived from the Old French word espace which itself comes

  • shaft

    Etymology Middle English schafte schafte from Old English sceaft sceaft shaft of