asymptote
Say it: AS-im-toht /ˈasɪm(p)təʊt/ · noun
What “asymptote” means
A line a curve keeps approaching without closing the gap.
More precisely: A line a curve gets ever closer to but never reaches; figuratively, a limit you keep approaching.
Example: “My bench press is nearing an asymptote: each month brings smaller gains.”
When to use it
In maths, or figuratively in thoughtful conversation, for a boundary that progress approaches ever more closely.
Similar words
limit, ceiling, plateau
Where it comes from
From Greek asumptōtos, 'not falling together'.
Quick check
On a graph, a curve creeps closer and closer to a straight line while a gap remains. What is that line?
an asymptote or a tangent?
Show the answer
an asymptote
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