/
ˈtan(d)ʒ(ə)nt/
n.
- a straight line or plane that touches a curve or curved surface at a point, but if extended does not cross it at that point.
- Mathematics the trigonometric function that is equal to the ratio of the sides (other than the hypotenuse) opposite and adjacent to an angle in a right-angled triangle.
- a completely different line of thought or action:
my mind went off at a tangent.
adj.
(of a line or plane) touching, but not intersecting, a curve or curved surface.
Derivative
Etymology
C16: from L. tangent-, tangere ‘touch’.