oblateness
/ˈɑbleɪtnəs/
noun
- The quality or degree of being flattened at the poles (like a sphere that is wider at the equator).
- The oblateness of Earth is about 0.00335, meaning it is slightly wider at the equator.
- The oblateness of the spinning ball of clay increased as it spun faster on the potter's wheel.
- Scientists measure the oblateness of planets to understand their rotation and internal structure.
Synonyms