pantograph

noun

pan·to·graph ˈpan-tə-ˌgraf

: an instrument for copying something (such as a map) on a predetermined scale consisting of four light rigid bars jointed in parallelogram form

also : any of various extensible devices of similar construction (as for use as brackets or gates)

: an electrical trolley carried by a collapsible and adjustable frame

pantographic

ˌpan-tə-ˈgra-fik

adjective

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web Mounted on a four-link, pantograph-style hydraulic mechanism, the oversize center section of the swim platform can cantilever upwards, revealing a tender and toy garage.

Howard Walker, Robb Report, 6 May 2022 In one experiment, children were shown a somewhat complex device called a pantograph.

Natalie Wexler, Forbes, 3 Jan. 2022 Yet these monumental sculptures come together in a markedly different method than those of Rodin and other sculptors circa 1900, who would start with a clay figure and then duplicate it at larger scale by use of a pantograph.

Jason Farago, New York Times, 4 Mar. 2021 The layout and size are fine, but its pantograph keys are really mushy and unresponsive and just don’t feel good to type on.

Sam Byford, The Verge, 1 Aug. 2019 Also Friday, Noland talked about a Jan. 14 incident in which an eastbound train's pantograph broke and got tangled in the overhead electrical wires just outside the Dune Park station, creating a shower of sparks and electric arcing atop a train car.

Tim Zorn, Post-Tribune, 28 Jan. 2018 The operator then controlled the Turk by means of a 'pantograph' device that synchronized his arm movements with those of the wooden Turk.

Kat Eschner, Smithsonian, 20 July 2017 The operator then controlled the Turk by means of a 'pantograph' device that synchronized his arm movements with those of the wooden Turk.

Kat Eschner, Smithsonian, 20 July 2017 See More

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'pantograph.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.