Abacus

['æbəkəs]

Definition

(noun.) a calculator that performs arithmetic functions by manually sliding counters on rods or in grooves.

(noun.) a tablet placed horizontally on top of the capital of a column as an aid in supporting the architrave.

Typed by Cecil--From WordNet

Definition

(n.) A table or tray strewn with sand, anciently used for drawing, calculating, etc.

(n.) A calculating table or frame; an instrument for performing arithmetical calculations by balls sliding on wires, or counters in grooves, the lowest line representing units, the second line, tens, etc. It is still employed in China.

(n.) The uppermost member or division of the capital of a column, immediately under the architrave. See Column.

(n.) A tablet, panel, or compartment in ornamented or mosaic work.

(n.) A board, tray, or table, divided into perforated compartments, for holding cups, bottles, or the like; a kind of cupboard, buffet, or sideboard.

Inputed by Cyrus

Definition

n. a counting-frame or table: (archit.) a level tablet on the capital of a column supporting the entablature:—pl. Ab′acī.—ns. Abacis′cus Abac′ulus dims. of Abacus; Ab′acist one who counts with the abacus.

Checked by Letitia