Akademik

(mathematics) the shortest line between two points on a mathematically defined surface (as a straight line on a plane or an arc of a great circle on a sphere)

see geodesic II

the shortest line lying on a given surface and connecting two given points.

[1885-90]

geodesic line or geodetic line noun

The shortest line on a surface between two points on it

Main Entry: ↑geodesy

geodesic line,

the shortest possible line between two points on a surface.