Conical

Conical is an adjective used to describe objects or shapes that resemble a cone. The term derives from Latin conus (cone), itself from Greek konos.

In geometry, a cone is formed by lines that pass through a fixed point, the apex, and meet a base curve. The most common form is a right circular cone, which has a circular base and an apex located perpendicular to the base’s center. The lateral surface of such a cone is a conical surface, and a portion cut by two parallel planes forms a conical frustum.

Conical sections are the curves produced by intersecting a cone with a plane. Depending on the plane’s position and angle, the intersection can be a circle, ellipse, parabola, or hyperbola. The term also appears in applied disciplines to describe components shaped like a cone, such as funnels, nozzles, and other parts designed to direct or concentrate flow or loads.

In everyday usage, many items are described as conical, including traffic cones, conical hats, and various lamps or architectural features. The conical shape is valued for its tapered form, which can aid in directing materials, reducing drag, or enabling efficient manufacturing and stacking. See also cone, conic sections.