curvature
UK: ˈkɜː.və.tʃər | US: ˈkɜːr.və.tʃər
n. the state or quality of being curved; a curved shape or form
n. (Mathematics) the rate at which a curve deviates from a straight line
The word "curvature" originates from Latin curvatura, derived from curvus (meaning "bent" or "curved"). The morpheme curv preserves the core idea of bending, while -ature (a suffix borrowed from Latin -atura) denotes a state or condition. This logical construction reflects how Latin roots were adapted into English to describe geometric and physical properties.
The curvature of the Earth becomes visible from high altitudes.
The lens corrects the curvature of light to focus images clearly.
Engineers calculated the bridge's curvature to ensure structural stability.
The artist emphasized the graceful curvature of the sculpture.
Spinal curvature abnormalities may require medical intervention.