Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Having a shape resembling that of a watermelon: Specifically, this adjective describes a three-dimensional form, typically a spheroid, that is longer along its polar axis than its equatorial axis. This results in an elongated, oval shape similar to the common fruit.

Usage

• The term is used in formal, often scientific or technical, contexts to describe the geometry of an object. It is a compound adjective, usually hyphenated.
• It is most accurately applied to objects that are symmetrical around their long axis.

Examples

• Adjective:
  • The planet Jupiter is slightly watermelon-shaped due to its rapid rotation.
  • The pill was not a perfect sphere but rather watermelon-shaped.
  • The artist sculpted a watermelon-shaped vase.

Advanced Usage

• Technical Description: In geometry, a object is formally described as a prolate spheroid. This is the opposite of an oblate spheroid (like Earth, which is flattened at the poles).

Variants and Related Words

• Prolate (adj): The formal geometric term meaning elongated along the polar axis. is a non-technical synonym for .
• Oblate (adj): The opposite shape; flattened at the poles.
• Ellipsoid (n): A general three-dimensional oval shape.

Synonyms

• Prolate
• Elongated
• Oval (in three dimensions)
• Egg-shaped (though this can be less symmetrical)

Antonyms

• Oblate
• Spherical
• Discoid

Adjective

1. having the polar diameter greater than the equatorial diameter
   • a prolate spheroid is generated by revolving an ellipse about its major axis