1. The curve that is adopted by a length of heavy cable, rope, or chain of uniform density, with a downward droop or bend between two points, or something with this shape: Examples of catenaries include a flexible series of metal links used for fastening or securing objects and pulling or supporting things that hang from metal holders; such as, electric power cables, etc.

A catenary object is also called a "chainette" that has the curve formed by the force of gravity in which a uniform flexible cable hangs when it is suspended from two points.

2. Etymology: from modern Latin catenaria; from Latin catena, "chain".