hippopede hipoped Fr.: hippopède A curve described by the → polar equation r2 = 4b (a - b sin2θ), where a and b are positive constants. For appropriate values of a and b, the curve looks like the infinity symbol, ∞. See also → spheres of Eudoxus. Hippopede, literally "a horse's foot," denoting a "horse fetter (hobble)," from Gk. hippos, → horse, + -pede variant of -ped, combining form of pos,→ foot. |