heliograph

American  

[hee-lee-uh-graf, -grahf] / ˈhi li əˌgræf, -ˌgrɑf /

noun

1. a device for signaling by means of a movable mirror that reflects beams of light, especially sunlight, to a distance.

2. Astronomy. photoheliograph.

3. Meteorology. an instrument for recording the duration and intensity of sunshine.

4. Photography, Printing. an early type of photoengraving made on a metal plate coated with sensitized asphalt.

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verb (used with or without object)

1. to communicate by heliograph.

heliograph British  

/ -ˌɡræf, ˌhiːlɪˈɒɡrəfə, ˈhiːlɪəʊˌɡrɑːf, ˌhiːlɪəʊˈɡræfɪk /

noun

1. an instrument with mirrors and a shutter used for sending messages in Morse code by reflecting the sun's rays

2. a device used to photograph the sun

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Other Word Forms

• heliographer noun
• heliographic adjective
• heliographical adjective
• heliographically adverb
• heliography noun

Etymology

Origin of heliograph

First recorded in 1815–25; helio- + -graph

Example Sentences

Many of the instruments used in early operations of the United States Army Signal Corps were adaptations of equipment used by the Plains Indians, particularly that of the heliograph.

From SAT Tests

In the flash of heliograph signals in the North Sea haze and the speaking of great naval guns, the world has lately read a certain statement about the British Empire.

From Time Magazine Archive

Far across the plains I saw a flashing light, as of a heliograph.

From Neighbours by Stead, Robert J. C.

He found the heliograph signal mirror at his side, sighted it upon the ship, and worked the mirror rapidly.

From Salvage in Space by Williamson, Jack

From an old MS. it appears that as early as 1068 the heliograph was in common use, special towers, with mirrors properly arranged, being built for the purpose of signalling.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 4, Slice 3 "Borgia, Lucrezia" to "Bradford, John" by Various

Related Words

• flare
• lantern
• radar