abacus

[ ab-uh-kuhs, uh-bak-uhs ]

noun

, plural ab·a·cus·es, ab·a·ci [ab, -, uh, -sahy, -kahy, uh, -, bak, -ahy].

1. a device for making arithmetic calculations, consisting of a frame set with rods on which balls or beads are moved.
2. Architecture. a slab forming the top of the capital of a column.

abacus

/ ˈæbəkəs /

noun

1. a counting device that consists of a frame holding rods on which a specific number of beads are free to move. Each rod designates a given denomination, such as units, tens, hundreds, etc, in the decimal system, and each bead represents a digit or a specific number of digits
2. architect the flat upper part of the capital of a column

Word History and Origins

Origin of abacus¹

1350–1400; Middle English < Latin: board, counting board, re-formed < Greek ábax

Word History and Origins

Origin of abacus¹

C16: from Latin, from Greek abax board covered with sand for tracing calculations, from Hebrew ābhāq dust

Example Sentences

The number crunchers, bean counters, and abacus economists, so derided by Liz Truss, have taken back control.

From BBC

In an October newsletter, Abacus Data pollster David Coletto said that the idea that "consensus around immigration is cracking is an understatement".

From BBC

An August poll of Canadian voters by Abacus Data suggested that 42% would vote for the Conservatives, who are currently the official opposition.

From BBC

Bindu Reddy, CEO and co-founder of Abacus.AI, said the solution is a little more nuanced than banning AI on our social media platforms — bad actors were spreading hate and misinformation online well before AI entered the equation.

From Los Angeles Times

Recently, a lovely and well-meaning friend texted me one of those trending articles that make you want to trade your smartphone for an abacus and never speak of the internet again.

From New York Times

Related Words

• data processor
• desktop computer
• PC
• personal computer