Evolvent

/ɪˈvɒlvənt/ noun

Definition

In mathematics, a curve that is being unrolled or traced; the original curve from which an involute is derived.

Etymology

From Latin 'evolvens' (unrolling) + '-ent' suffix. A technical geometric term meaning 'that which unfolds.'

Kelly Says

If an involute is like thread unwrapping from a spool, the evolvent is the *spool itself*—it's the base curve that generates the involute through a rolling motion.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.