In mathematics, a curve is, generally speaking, an object similar to a straight line but which is not required to be straight. Often curves in two-dimensional (plane curves) or three-dimensional (space curves) Euclidean space are of interest.

Different disciplines within mathematics have given the term different meanings depending on the area of study, so the precise meaning depends on context. A simple example of a curve is the parabola, shown to the right. A large number of other curves have been studied in multiple mathematical fields.

The term curve has several meanings in non-mathematical language as well. For example, it can be almost synonymous with mathematical function (as in learning curve), or graph of a function (as in Phillips curve).

Adjective

curved (comparative more curved, superlative most curved)

1. Having a curve or curves.

• straight