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graticule

graticule

9.9
A set of small lines or crosshairs in an instrument's eyepiece that helps you measure and aim
  • noun
  • /ˈɡrætɪˌkjuːl/
  • Specialized
translation icon : retículo
  • The graticule helps astronomers locate stars more accurately.

Examples

  • The telescope’s graticule made it easier to estimate the distance between stars.

  • The microscope’s graticule helped the biologist measure tiny cellular structures with precision.

  • She adjusted the graticule so the crosshairs aligned perfectly with the specimen.

  • Can you see the graticule in the telescope?

  • In the microscope, the graticule helps scientists measure the size of tiny specimens accurately.

  • Astronomers rely on the graticule to precisely locate stars and planets in the night sky.

  • The engineer checked the alignment of the laser using the graticule in the optical device.

Synonyms

reticle
vsgraticule
  • Specialized
1 9.5

A pattern of fine lines or dots in an eyepiece that helps you aim and measure

is the same concept but named differently in other contexts
reticule
vsgraticule
  • Specialized
1 9.9

A set of fine lines in an eyepiece that help aim and measure

is the same concept but appears as an alternate form
réseau
vsgraticule
  • Specialized
9.9

A grid of fine lines placed over an image to help measure or align it

is found in eyepieces of optical instruments not limited to those fields

Surface Forms

graticule singular
graticules plural

Etymology

Graticule comes from an old Latin word craticula meaning 'small grate' or 'little grid'. So a graticule is like a tiny grid or 'grate' placed in an eyepiece to help you measure and line things up.