1
: an oval figure or object
2
: a racetrack in the shape of an oval or a rectangle having rounded corners
: having the shape of an egg
also
: broadly elliptical
Synonyms
Examples of oval in a Sentence
Noun
The racetrack is an oval.
Adjective
the Oval Office in the White House
Recent Examples on the Web
Sonja Anderson, Smithsonian Magazine, 5 June 2024
Its soft oval shape fits perfectly in an entryway or hallway, and the natural material is durable enough for high-traffic areas.
—Wendy Vazquez, Southern Living, 29 May 2024
Benjamin C Tankersley, Washington Post, 1 Feb. 2023
This simple opener works well on circular cans but may not be effective on dented, square, or oval cans.
—Maya Polton, Better Homes & Gardens, 31 Jan. 2023
See all Example Sentences for oval 
Noun
It was surrounded by a fence of 55 oak timbers that were up to ten feet tall, arranged in an oval measuring over 22 feet across.
—Sonja Anderson, Smithsonian Magazine, 5 June 2024
Its soft oval shape fits perfectly in an entryway or hallway, and the natural material is durable enough for high-traffic areas.
—Wendy Vazquez, Southern Living, 29 May 2024
Adjective
The Kohler Sunstruck oval tub is standard in the primary bathroom if this layout is chosen.
—Benjamin C Tankersley, Washington Post, 1 Feb. 2023
This simple opener works well on circular cans but may not be effective on dented, square, or oval cans.
—Maya Polton, Better Homes & Gardens, 31 Jan. 2023
See all Example Sentences for oval
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'oval.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near oval
Cite this Entry
“Oval.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/oval. Accessed 9 Jun. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
oval
1 of 2 noun
: an oval figure or object
oval
2 of 2 adjective
: having the shape or outline of an egg
Etymology
Adjective
from Latin ovalis (adjective) "having the shape of an egg," derived from earlier ovum "egg"
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