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, ə-ˈba- \ , -ˌkē ; ə-ˈba-ˌkī \ or abacusesDefinition of abacus
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abacus
nounFinancial Definition of abacus
What It Is
An abacus is a counting device that performs basic mathematical functions.
How It Works
The abacus is believed to have been developed in the ancient Near East in the third millennium BCE. An abacus consists of a series of thin parallel bars set into a rectangular frame, usually made of wood. Each bar contains a number of beads that slide along its length. Individuals use the beads as number counters and use the abacus to perform addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
Why It Matters
The abacus has been in continuous use since its conception. It is still widely used in Far Eastern cultures including China and Japan.
Source: Investing Answers
abacus
noun English Language Learners Definition of abacus
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abacus
noun \Kids Definition of abacus
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Time Traveler for abacus
The first known use of abacus was in the 14th century
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