ordinate

Definition

The second of the two terms by which a point is referred to, in a system of fixed rectilinear coordinate (Cartesian coordinate) axes.

Etymology

Partly inherited from Middle English ordinat(e) (adjective and participle), partly directly borrowed from Latin ōrdinātus, perfect passive participle of ōrdinō, see -ate (etymology 1, 2 and 3). Doublet of ordain. Sense 5 of the verb is from a back-formation from ordination.

Example Sentences

• "Coordinate term: abscissa"
• "The point (3,2) has 3 as its abscissa and 2 as its ordinate."