hectograph

or hek·to·graph

[ hek-tuh-graf, -grahf ]

noun

1. a process for making copies of a letter, memorandum, etc., from a prepared gelatin surface to which the original writing has been transferred.
2. a machine for making such copies.

verb (used with object)

1. to copy with the hectograph.

hectograph

/ hɛkˈtɒɡrəfɪ; -ˌɡræf; ˈhɛktəʊˌɡrɑːf; ˌhɛktəʊˈɡræfɪk /

noun

1. Also calledcopygraph a process for copying type or manuscript from a glycerine-coated gelatine master to which the original has been transferred
2. a machine using this process

Derived Forms

• ˌhectoˈgraphically, adverb
• hectography, noun
• hectographic, adjective

Other Words From

• hec·to·graph·ic [hek-t, uh, -, graf, -ik], adjective
• hec·tog·ra·phy [hek-, tog, -r, uh, -fee], noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of hectograph¹

First recorded in 1875–80; hecto- + -graph

Example Sentences

By some unfortunate chance, I got a little double-strength purple hectograph ink on my face.

From Project Gutenberg

The hectograph is a device for making copies of written work.

From Project Gutenberg

When you have as many as you need clean the surface of the hectograph for the next time you wish to use it.

From Project Gutenberg

The hectograph is one of the simplest devices for obtaining duplicate copies of written work (Fig. 147).

From Project Gutenberg

The original copy is written with hectograph ink on smooth paper by hand, or on a typewriter, and allowed to dry.

From Project Gutenberg