minor axis

noun

, Mathematics.

1. the axis of an ellipse that is perpendicular to the major axis at a point equidistant from the foci.

minor axis

noun

1. the shorter or shortest axis of an ellipse or ellipsoid

Word History and Origins

Origin of minor axis¹

First recorded in 1860–65

Example Sentences

Draw the line a b, the major axis, and at a right angle to it the line c d, the minor axis of the figure.

From Project Gutenberg

Its form is that of an ellipsoid, with a major axis 26 millimetres in length, while the minor axis measures 11 millimetres.

From Project Gutenberg

The marks D D, therefore, indicate the distance across the minor axis in Fig. 113.

From Project Gutenberg

Two small apiculi are inserted at about one-fifth the radius from the border near the ends of the minor axis.

From Project Gutenberg

The arches which stood at the extremities of the minor axis were the approaches to the imperial pavilions.

From Project Gutenberg