abacus

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a tablet placed horizontally on top of the capital of a column as an aid in supporting the architrave
  2. noun a calculator that performs arithmetic functions by manually sliding counters on rods or in grooves

Etymology

From Late Middle English abacus, abagus, agabus (“abacus; art of counting with an abacus”), from Latin abacus, abax (“sideboard or table with a slab at the top; slab at the top of a column; counting board, sand table; board for playing games”) (compare Late Latin abacus (“art of arithmetic”)), from Ancient Greek ἄβαξ (ábax, “slab, counting board; board covered with sand for drawing; plate; dice-board”). Doublet of abaque and abac. The plural form abaci is reinforced from Latin abacī.

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