axial

Definition

Axial means "related to an axis." An axis is a line that goes through the centre of something and around which it rotates. For example, the Earth has an axial tilt. This means that the Earth's axis is not perpendicular to the plane of its orbit around the sun. This tilt is what causes the seasons.

Another example of something axial is a spinning top. The top's axis is the line that goes through the centre of the top and around which it spins.

How can the word be used?

The axial tilt of the Earth causes the seasons.

Different forms of the word

Adjective: axial.

Adverb: axially.

Noun: axis.

Synonyms: central, pivotal, main, principal.

Antonyms: peripheral, marginal, secondary.

Etymology

The word "axial" comes from the Latin word axis, which means "axis" or "axle." The Latin word is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root ak-, which means "to point.".

Question

In physics what is the word axial often used to describe?