pantograph

Meaning

Noun

1. A mechanical linkage based on parallelograms causing two objects to move in parallel; notably as a drawing aid.
2. By extension, a structure of crosswise bars linked in such a way that it can extend and compress like an accordion, such as in a pantograph mirror or a scissor lift.
3. A pattern printed on a document to reduce the ease of photocopying.
4. A similarly-formed conductive device, now usually Z-shaped, that collects electric current from overhead lines for trains and trams.

Verb

To engrave by means of a pantograph (parallel linkage) system.

Synonyms

bow

🙇

current collector

trolley

pan

panto

pantagraph

Translations

pantografo

pantógrafo

pantographe

Stromabnehmer

παντογράφος

pantògraf

tekenaap

pantograaf

pantograf

Dachstromabnehmer

Storchenschnabel

Pantograph

stroomafnemer

pantógrafo

Pronounced as (IPA)

/ˈpantəɡɹɑːf/

Etymology

From French pantographe, from panto- (from Ancient Greek παντός (pantós), genitive singular of πᾶν (pân, “all”)), and -graphe (from γράφειν (gráphein, “to write”)).