| secant | 1. <geometry> A line that cuts another; especially, a straight line cutting a curve in two or more points. 2. <mathematics> A right line drawn from the center of a circle through one end of a circular arc, and terminated by a tangent drawn from the other end; the number expressing the ratio line of this line to the radius of the circle. See Trigonometrical function, under Function. Origin: Cf. F. Secante. See Secant. Source: Websters Dictionary (01 Mar 1998) |
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