Definition: elliptic

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Source: WordNet (r) 1.7 

elliptic
     adj 1: containing or characterized by ellipsis; "the clause of
            comparison is often elliptical"- G.O.Curme [syn: elliptical]
     2: of a leaf shape; in the form of an ellipse
     3: rounded like an egg [syn: egg-shaped, elliptical, oval,
         ovate, oviform, ovoid, prolate]
     4: characterized by extreme economy of expression or omission
        of superfluous elements; "the dialogue is elliptic and
        full of dark hints"; "the explanation was concise, even
        elliptical to the verge of obscurity"- H.O.Taylor [syn: elliptical]

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913) 

Elliptic \El*lip"tic\, Elliptical \El*lip"tic*al\, a. [Gr. ?:
   cf. F. elliptique. See Ellipsis.]
   1. Of or pertaining to an ellipse; having the form of an
      ellipse; oblong, with rounded ends.

            The planets move in elliptic orbits.  --Cheyne.

   2. Having a part omitted; as, an elliptical phrase.

   Elliptic chuck. See under Chuck.

   Elliptic compasses, an instrument arranged for drawing
      ellipses.

   Elliptic function. (Math.) See Function.

   Elliptic integral. (Math.) See Integral.

   Elliptic polarization. See under Polarization.