Mathematically, the catenary curve is the graph of the hyperbolic cosine function. Wikipedia.
Another name for a "
catenary" is an "
alysoid" from the Greek word for chain.
From the Latin word, the mathematical equation called a "
catenary" is name as the shape a chain (or rope) takes when suspended between two points. Power lines take this shape, as do parts of spider webs. A catenary curve appears somewhat like a parabola, but is not exactly a parabola shape.
President
Thomas Jefferson is credited with naming the "
catenary" curve.