Definitions for abacusˈæb ə kəs, əˈbæk əs; ˈæb əˌsaɪ, -ˌkaɪ, əˈbæk aɪ
Random House Webster's College Dictionary
ab•a•cusˈæb ə kəs, əˈbæk əs; ˈæb əˌsaɪ, -ˌkaɪ, əˈbæk aɪ(n.)(pl.)ab•a•cus•es, ab•a•ci
a device for making arithmetical calculations, consisting of a frame set with rods on which balls or beads are moved.
a slab forming the top of the capital of a column.
Category: Architecture
Origin of abacus:
1350–1400; ME < L: board, counting board, re-formed < Gk ábax
Princeton's WordNet
abacus(noun)
a tablet placed horizontally on top of the capital of a column as an aid in supporting the architrave
abacus(noun)
a calculator that performs arithmetic functions by manually sliding counters on rods or in grooves
Wiktionary
abacus(Noun)
A table or tray strewn with sand, anciently used for drawing, calculating, etc.
abacus(Noun)
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.
I've heard merchants still use an abacus for adding things up in China.
abacus(Noun)
The uppermost member or division of the capital of a column, immediately under the architrave.
abacus(Noun)
A tablet, panel, or compartment in ornamented or mosaic work.
abacus(Noun)
A board, tray, or table, divided into perforated compartments, for holding cups, bottles, or the like; a kind of cupboard, buffet, or sideboard.
Webster Dictionary
Abacus(noun)
a table or tray strewn with sand, anciently used for drawing, calculating, etc
Abacus(noun)
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
Abacus(noun)
the uppermost member or division of the capital of a column, immediately under the architrave. See Column
Abacus(noun)
a tablet, panel, or compartment in ornamented or mosaic work
Abacus(noun)
a board, tray, or table, divided into perforated compartments, for holding cups, bottles, or the like; a kind of cupboard, buffet, or sideboard
The Nuttall Encyclopedia
Abacus
a tablet crowning a column and its capital.
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