adj
tangential
Tangential (adj) means relating to a tangent, or moving along a tangent to something.
adj
1
Relating to a tangent, or moving along a tangent to something.
"The meteor came in on a tangential orbit and exploded about 8 or 10 miles above the earth's surface, just south of the Arctic Circle."
— Edward Teller, Memoirs: A Twentieth Century Journey in Science and Politics (2002)
2
Touching only slightly, the way a tangent line does.
3
Connected only in a minor or indirect way.
"That subject is tangential to our discussion, and we cannot let it distract us."
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Synonyms
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Rhymes for tangential
See all rhymes for tangential →Frequently asked questions
What is the meaning of tangential?
"tangential" (adj) means relating to a tangent, or moving along a tangent to something.
What is another word for tangential?
Other words for "tangential" include digressive.
What is the opposite of tangential?
The opposite of "tangential" is normal.
What are the different meanings of tangential?
"tangential" has 3 main meanings: 1. Relating to a tangent, or moving along a tangent to something; 2. Touching only slightly, the way a tangent line does; 3. Connected only in a minor or indirect way.
