volvelle
- noun
- /vəˈvɛl/
- Specialized
:
volvelle
- For example, the volvelle shown in the first photograph was used to demonstrate the relative orientations of the Moon and Sun in the sky during different lunar phases, whereas the volvelle shown in the second photograph was used to calculate the shifting (in degrees) of the axis of the Moon with respect to the background sky with the aid of the string pointer.
- use of a volvelle
Examples
-
The movable parts of a volvelle were attached to the page by a tab or string.
Academic text (2005) -
Many volvelles incorporated one or more strings that could be used as pointers or could assist with calculations or demonstrations.
Academic text (2005) -
But this volvelle had another purpose.
Academic text (2005) -
In addition, Matthew included a volvelle in the book as one of the key devices for generating the initial code to that future.
Academic text (1999) -
Together, cityscape and volvelle were devices familiar enough to the monks who sought to know their fate.
Academic text (1999) -
In this use, the volvelle has been characterized as a two-dimensional astrolabe.
Academic text (1999) -
Printed volvelles were round in a number of prominent 15th and 16th century texts.
Academic text (2005) -
Although a few freestanding volvelles were produced that were made out of wood, brass, or other rigid materials, most were incorporated into printed books.
Academic text (2005) -
The volvelle was designed to help scholars calculate astronomical events by aligning its rotating parts.
-
In medieval texts, a volvelle often provided information about the positions of celestial bodies.
Synonyms
A circular chart with a rotating disk that shows information when you turn it
How Complex
- Archaic
1
5.9
- Specialized
- Specialized
63
1.5
∞
1.0
- US
62
1.4
Surface Forms
Etymology
The word volvelle comes from the old Latin word volvere, which means 'to turn'. You can see the same root in revolve, and a volvelle is a small wheel you turn to show or calculate information, so the name fits its meaning.