Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

asymptote

noun

ˈæs.ɪm.toʊt

Definition

A line that a curve approaches as it heads towards infinity.

Examples

As the graph of the function increased, it became clear that it had a horizontal asymptote approaching y = 2.
The equation of the asymptote helped predict the behavior of the curve at extreme values.
In calculus, understanding asymptotes is essential for analyzing functions.

Meaning

In mathematics, an asymptote is a straight line that serves as a boundary for a curve. As the curve extends towards infinity, it gets closer and closer to this line but never actually touches it.