Plural of cosine; the trigonometric functions equal to the ratio of the adjacent side to the hypotenuse of a right triangle.
From cosine (co- meaning complementary + sine). The term was coined in the 17th century as calculus and trigonometry developed.
Cosines are why bridges, buildings, and roller coasters can be calculated to stay standing—engineers use sine and cosine to figure out forces and angles constantly.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.