analog

1 of 2

adjective

an·​a·​log ˈa-nə-ˌlȯg How to pronounce analog (audio)
-ˌläg
1
a
: of, relating to, or being a mechanism or device in which information is represented by continuously variable physical quantities
Your speakers are analog technology in all its nearly century-old glory … . As the speakers get their signals from the cables, the drivers vibrate in a continual state of flux as the changing analog signals are fed to them. The drivers are presenting an analogy of what came from the original source, even if the source started off digital, such as a CD.Ron Goldberg
b
: of or relating to an analog computer
In an analog machine each number is represented by a suitable physical quantity, whose value, measured in some pre-assigned unit, is equal to the number in question.The World Treasury Of Physics
c
of a timepiece : having both hour and minute hands
an analog watch
d
: not digital : not computerized
Of course, it's possible to meet someone online, but it's just as tough as the old, analog ways.Anita Hamilton
2
: of, relating to, or being an analogue

analog

2 of 2

noun

an·​a·​log

variant spelling of analogue entry 1

1
: something that is similar or comparable to something else either in general or in some specific detail : something that is analogous to something else
historical analogues to the current situation
an aspirin analogue
2
: an organ or part similar in function to an organ or part of another animal or plant but different in structure and origin
The gill of a fish is the analogue of the lung of a cat.
3
usually analog : a chemical compound that is structurally similar to another but differs slightly in composition (as in the replacement of one atom by an atom of a different element or in the presence of a particular functional group)
4
: a food product made by combining a less expensive food (such as soybeans or whitefish) with additives to give the appearance and taste of a more expensive food (such as beef or crab)

Examples of analog in a Sentence

Adjective Telephone lines carry data in analog form. It receives an analog video signal and converts it to a digital signal.
Recent Examples on the Web
Adjective
Some purists will disagree, though, at this point, these sets sound almost identical to an analog counterpart despite coming in a much more compact and convenient package. Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 4 Oct. 2024 In our increasingly digital culture, natural diamonds create analog emotional experiences that can never be faked, replicated or substituted. Layla Ilchi, WWD, 24 Sep. 2024
Noun
For those who want an analog gaming keyboard, the Razer Huntsman V2 is on sale right now with a solid discount. Gabriela Vatu, PCMAG, 8 Oct. 2024 Taking the brand-new 40 series DAC, Cyrus has redesigned the 40 CD power supply to minimize interaction between the complex mix of signals which includes fast digital audio, sensitive analog audio, high current servo and system controls. Mark Sparrow, Forbes, 2 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for analog 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'analog.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

from attributive use of analogue entry 1; (sense 1) after analog computer, in which physical quantities (as electrical potential or mechanical motion) are analogues of corresponding quantities in the problem to be solved

First Known Use

Adjective

1844, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of analog was in 1844

Dictionary Entries Near analog

Cite this Entry

“Analog.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/analog. Accessed 12 Oct. 2024.

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