asymptotic

American  

[as-im-tot-ik] / ˌæs ɪmˈtɒt ɪk /

Also asymptotical

adjective

Mathematics.

1. of or relating to an asymptote.

2. (of a function) approaching a given value as an expression containing a variable tends to infinity.

3. (of two functions) so defined that their ratio approaches unity as the independent variable approaches a limit or infinity.

4. (of a formula) becoming increasingly exact as a variable approaches a limit, usually infinity.

5. coming into consideration as a variable approaches a limit, usually infinity.

   asymptotic property; asymptotic behavior.

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asymptotic British  

/ ˌæsɪmˈtɒtɪk /

adjective

1. of or referring to an asymptote

2. (of a function, series, formula, etc) approaching a given value or condition, as a variable or an expression containing a variable approaches a limit, usually infinity

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Other Word Forms

• asymptotically adverb

Etymology

Origin of asymptotic

First recorded in 1665–75; asymptot(e) + -ic

Example Sentences

Shares grow like asymptotic curves—going up and up, seemingly toward infinity!

From The Wall Street Journal

The scientific method is an asymptotic process aimed at determining natural truths.

From Los Angeles Times

The challenge of tracing early mild cases, particularly with a disease which we now know can be asymptotic, is not unique to China.

From BBC

The lack of testing and not being able to identify whether someone has been infected and is asymptotic poses a huge threat to these tight-knight communities, Gonzalez said.

From Fox News

And so I hope to help drill this into other people’s heads: Any of us might already have it and be asymptotic, or presymptomatic.

From Los Angeles Times