slide rule

noun

1. a device for performing mathematical calculations, consisting essentially of a ruler having a sliding piece moving along it, both marked with graduated, usually logarithmic, scales: now largely replaced by the electronic calculator.

slide rule

noun

1. a mechanical calculating device consisting of two strips, one sliding along a central groove in the other, each strip graduated in two or more logarithmic scales of numbers, trigonometric functions, etc. It employs the same principles as logarithm tables

Word History and Origins

Origin of slide rule¹

1655–65 for earlier sense; 1875–80 for current sense

Example Sentences

The engineers had slide rules and mechanical calculators but didn’t like doing calculations.

From Quanta Magazine

I walked to Greenwich, studying the slide rule for measuring of timber, which is very fine.

From Project Gutenberg

I swallowed, and took out my notebook and pencil, and laid my pocket slide rule in front of me.

From Project Gutenberg

He readjusted the slide rule and slid the hairline over a bit.

From Project Gutenberg

He sat in the big chair with his feet sticking straight out in front of him and played with a slide rule.

From Project Gutenberg

The use of a slide rule will make this transference to a new average very easy.

From Project Gutenberg