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Glite Dictionary
parabolograph

parabolograph

9.9
A tool for drawing exact U-shaped curves for design and math
  • noun
  • /ˌpærəˈbɒləˌɡræf/
  • Archaic
: parabolografo
  • The mathematician used a parabolograph to sketch precise curves for his experiments.

Examples

  • Before computer software, a parabolograph was essential for drafting engineers working with parabolic shapes.

  • Historical museums sometimes display a parabolograph alongside other antique drafting tools.

  • The parabolograph was used in the 19th century.

  • Artists often relied on the parabolograph for precise designs.

  • Before computer software, a parabolograph was essential for drafting engineers working with parabolic shapes.

  • Historical museums sometimes display a parabolograph alongside other antique drafting tools.

  • The mathematician used a parabolograph to sketch precise curves for his experiments.

Surface Forms

parabolograph singular
parabolographs plural

Morphology

parabolograph = parabola (semi-transparent) = parabola + graph

The word is built from 'parabola' plus the instrument-forming suffix '-graph', but the term is technical and not fully predictable for learners.

Etymology

Parabolograph combines parabola ('curved shape') and the ending -graph ('to draw' or 'to write'), the same ending you see in photograph or autograph. So a parabolograph is a tool for 'drawing' exact parabolic curves, which helps you remember its meaning.