slide-rule

A student uses a slide-rule to solve a mathematics problem.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A "slide-rule" is a mechanical calculating device consisting of a ruler with a central sliding piece, both marked with logarithmic scales, used for performing mathematical operations such as multiplication, division, and exponentiation.

Usage Examples

• (A mechanical tool for mathematical operations.)
• (A historical calculating instrument.)

Advanced Usage

• "to use a slide-rule": to operate this device for computation.

  • He learned to use a slide-rule during his university years. (He practiced calculating with the mechanical tool.)

• "slide-rule accuracy": a phrase referring to the precision achievable with this device, typically limited to three or four significant figures.

  • The engineer estimated the result to slide-rule accuracy. (He approximated the value with moderate precision.)

Variants and Related Words

• Slide-rule (also spelled as slide rule): the standard term; no common compound variants.
• Logarithmic scale (n): the scale marked on a slide-rule based on logarithms.
  • The slide-rule's logarithmic scale allows multiplication by adding distances. (The scale uses logarithm principles.)

Synonyms

• Calculating ruler: a ruler-like device for calculations.
• Mechanical calculator: a general term for non-electronic calculating tools.

Idioms

• "to slide the rule": a metaphorical phrase meaning to adjust or manipulate a standard or measurement.
  • The manager had to slide the rule to accommodate the new policy. (He adjusted the standard informally.)