pantograph Definition
- 1a mechanical linkage connected in a manner based on parallelograms so that the movement of one pen, in tracing an image, produces identical movements in a second pen
- 2an instrument for copying drawings or maps to a different size
- 3a device mounted on the roof of an electric train, tram, or electric bus to collect power through contact with an overhead line
Using pantograph: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "pantograph" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The artist used a pantograph to create a larger version of the original drawing.
Example
The pantograph is a useful tool for architects who need to scale up or down their designs.
Example
The electric train's pantograph was damaged during the storm.
pantograph Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for pantograph
- duplicator
- copier
- reproducer
- replicator
Phrases with pantograph
a phenomenon where the quality of the copy decreases as the size of the copy increases
Example
The pantograph effect was noticeable in the enlarged printout of the photograph.
a technique for engraving metal plates used in printing, where the design is traced onto the plate using a pantograph
Example
The pantograph engraving process allowed for precise and detailed designs to be printed.
a type of streetcar or tram that uses a pantograph to collect power from overhead wires
Example
The new pantograph car was more efficient and reliable than the older models.
Origins of pantograph
from French 'panto' meaning 'all' and 'graph' meaning 'write'
Summary: pantograph in Brief
A 'pantograph' [ˈpæntəgræf] is a mechanical linkage that copies the movement of one pen to another, allowing for precise duplication of drawings or maps. It can also refer to a device on electric trains that collects power from overhead lines. The term is used in phrases like 'pantograph effect,' which describes a decrease in quality as the size of the copy increases, and 'pantograph engraving,' a technique for engraving metal plates used in printing.
