Concave

Concave describes a surface or a line that curves inward, resembling the interior of a sphere or bowl. It's the opposite of convex, which curves outward. This inward curvature can be found in various objects, from the lens of a telescope to the surface of a seashell. The degree of concavity varies, ranging from slight depressions to deep, curving hollows. It's a geometric property crucial in fields like optics, architecture, and engineering, influencing how light, forces, and materials interact. Understanding concavity is fundamental for analyzing and designing structures or systems with curved shapes. The term highlights a significant characteristic of an object or surface's geometry.

Concave meaning with examples

• The sculptor meticulously carved the stone, creating a concave depression in the center to hold the water, offering birds a safe place to drink. This deliberate curve enhanced the sculpture's aesthetics, reflecting light in a unique way. The artist carefully measured each curve, ensuring the water would gather perfectly, demonstrating the precise application of concave design. The overall impact was a striking contrast between the smooth edges and the inward curvature of the central water bowl.
• The telescope's objective lens was crafted with a concave surface to converge the incoming light rays, which enables a magnified view of distant celestial objects. The curvature helped in focusing the faintest beams, allowing astronomers to see deeper into space. The lens’s curvature enabled the capturing of even faint light and producing clear images. This precision in design allows scientists to study stars, planets, and other objects, pushing the boundaries of our knowledge.
• The architect designed a building with a dramatic, concave facade. This curved exterior not only served as a design feature but also optimized the building's performance, allowing the windows to reflect sunlight efficiently during the day and provide optimal shading during the hottest times. The design was also able to increase the interior spaces by the addition of concave structures. This design demonstrates an innovative approach to combining aesthetics with functionality in modern architecture.
• The seamstress carefully shaped the dress's bodice using a concave pattern to contour to the wearer's body. The deliberate curvature created a flattering silhouette, allowing the dress to smoothly fit across the chest and waist area. This inward curve creates a pleasing shape on the wearer. The dress's design ensures a perfect fit, demonstrating her skill. She used this effect to enhance the wearer's appearance.