The curve theoretically assumed by a perfectly flexible and inextensible cord of uniform density and cross section hanging freely from two fixed points.

Roget 245: curvature, curvity^†, curvation^†; incurvature^†, incurvity^†; incurvation^†; bend; flexure, flexion, flection^†; conflexure^†; crook, hook, bought, bending; deflection, deflexion^†; inflection, inflexion^†; concameration^†; arcuation^†, devexity^†, turn, deviation, detour, sweep; curl, curling; bough; recurvity^†, recurvation^†; sinuosity etc. 248.    kink.    carve, arc, arch, arcade, vault, bow, crescent, half-moon, lunule^†, horseshoe, loop, crane neck; parabola, hyperbola; helix, spiral; catenary^†, festoon; conchoid^†, cardioid; caustic; tracery; arched ceiling, arched roof; bay window, bow window.    sine curve; spline, spline curve, spline function; obliquity etc. 217.    ... show more