prolate Meaning, Definition & Usage

adjective having the polar diameter greater than the equatorial diameter
watermelon-shaped.
- a prolate spheroid is generated by revolving an ellipse about its major axis
adjective satellite rounded like an egg
oval-shaped; ovate; ovoid; elliptic; elliptical; oval; egg-shaped; oviform.

L. prolatus, used as p. p. of proferre to bring forth, to extend; pro + latus, p. p. See Pro-, and Tolerate.

Stretched out; extended; especially, elongated in the direction of a line joining the poles; as, a prolate spheroid; -- opposed to oblate.