orthodromy

/ɒrθəˈdrɒmi/

Definitions

1. noun

The shortest path between two points on a sphere, such as the Earth, as determined by the laws of geometry, especially in navigation.

“The airline optimized its flight routes using principles of orthodromy to save fuel and time.”

2. noun

The study of the shortest paths between two points, especially on a sphere.

“The mathematician’s research on orthodromy led to new insights in the field of navigation.”

Synonyms

  • geodesy
  • spherical geometry

Antonyms

  • obliquity