Part of Speech

Adjective, Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈkɒn.keɪv/

Definitions

• Adjective: Curved inward, like the inside of a bowl or a sphere. A surface that curves inwards is considered concave.
• Noun: A concave shape or surface, typically a hollowed or curved-in feature.

Usage Examples

• "The concave mirror magnified the image of the object in front of it."
• "The satellite dish was designed with a concave surface to improve signal reception."
• "The bowl had a concave shape, perfect for holding liquids without spilling."

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word "concavus," meaning "hollow," from "con-" meaning "together" and "cavus" meaning "hollow or hollowed out."

Synonyms

• Hollow
• Indented
• Sunken
• Curved in

Antonyms

• Convex
• Flat
• Level

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In British English, the pronunciation is clear with an emphasis on the first syllable: /ˈkɒn.keɪv/.
• In American English, the pronunciation may sound slightly more relaxed: /kənˈkeɪv/.

Historical Usage

The term "concave" has been used since the 16th century, originally from Latin "concavus," to describe a shape that curves inward. It has been applied in a variety of contexts, including geometry, optics, and architecture, where concave surfaces are often used to focus light or sound.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, the concept of "concave" is associated with bowls, mirrors, and dishes, where the concave shape is used for practical purposes. In art, concave surfaces are often used to create visual depth or to manipulate light and shadow.

More Information

Concave surfaces are commonly used in fields like physics and engineering, particularly in optics, where concave lenses or mirrors are used to focus light. The opposite of concave is convex, where the surface bulges outward. The distinction between concave and convex is crucial in the study of reflections, refractions, and the behavior of light.