minor axis

noun

: the chord of an ellipse passing through the center and perpendicular to the major axis

Word History

First Known Use

1862, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of minor axis was in 1862

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minoration

minor axis

Minorca

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Minor axis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/minor%20axis. Accessed 31 Oct. 2025.

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