# pantograph

Pronunciation: US say "PAN-tuh-graf" /ˈpæntəˌɡɹæf/; UK say "PAN-tuh-grahf" /ˈpantəɡɹɑːf/

## Noun

1. A jointed framework of bars arranged in parallelograms that links two pointers so they move together, used especially to copy a drawing at a larger or smaller scale.
   - Simple: A drawing tool made of jointed bars that copies a shape and makes it bigger or smaller.
   - _Draftsmen once relied on a pantograph to scale technical drawings up for display._
   - _She clamped the pantograph to the board and traced the original to produce an enlarged copy._
2. A spring-loaded, usually Z-shaped conductive arm mounted on the roof of a train or tram that presses against overhead lines to collect electric current.
   - Simple: A frame on top of a train that touches an overhead wire to take in electric power.
   - _Maintenance crews inspect each pantograph for worn contact strips before the morning service._
   - _As the locomotive accelerated, its pantograph traced the overhead wire without losing contact._
3. A structure of crosswise bars linked so that it extends and compresses like an accordion, as in an extendable mirror or a scissor lift.
   - Simple: A set of crossed bars joined so they can stretch out and fold up like an accordion.
   - _The wall-mounted pantograph swung the shaving mirror out over the sink._
   - _Engineers chose a pantograph to raise the work platform smoothly to height._
4. A background pattern printed on a document so that photocopying it produces a degraded image or reveals a hidden warning, deterring counterfeiting.
   - Simple: A hidden pattern printed on paper that shows a warning or breaks up when someone copies it.
   - _The bank prints a pantograph behind the amount field to foil altered duplicates._
   - _Security designers added a pantograph that renders the word "copy" visible on any reproduction._

## Verb

5. To engrave a design or lettering by guiding a jointed parallel-linkage machine that copies a master pattern onto the workpiece.
   - Simple: To cut letters or designs into a surface using a jointed copying machine.
   - _Craftsmen pantograph the regimental crest onto each presentation sword._
   - _Machinists still pantograph mold cavities from oversized templates._

## Origin

From French pantographe, formed from panto- (from Ancient Greek pân, "all") and -graphe (from gráphein, "to write").

Source: DictionaryAI, https://dictionaryai.com/define/pantograph (written from Wiktionary data, CC BY-SA 4.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/).