In a way that approaches a value or line very closely but never quite reaches it, like how a curve can get infinitely close to a straight line without touching it.
From asymptote (Greek 'asymptotos' meaning 'not falling together'), combining 'a-' (not) and 'symptote' (falling together). The -ically suffix makes it an adverb form. The mathematical concept was formalized in the 17th century to describe curves in geometry.
Asymptotically describes one of math's most mind-bending ideas: infinity working in slow motion. A rocket approaching the speed of light asymptotically would get closer and closer forever but never actually reach it—which is exactly why Einstein proved nothing with mass can ever hit light speed!
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