steelyard
/'stiljɑ:d/
Definition
- Noun:
- A portable balance consisting of a pivoted bar with arms of unequal length: A steelyard is a simple weighing device. It has a horizontal bar that pivots on a fulcrum. One arm is short and holds the object to be weighed. The other, longer arm has a movable counterweight. The weight is determined by the position of the counterweight along a graduated scale on the long arm.
Examples of Usage
- Noun:
- The merchant used a steelyard to weigh the spices.
- Archaeologists found an ancient Roman steelyard at the site.
Advanced Usage
- Historical and Technical Context: The steelyard is an ancient tool, a type of lever scale, valued for its portability and simplicity. It operates on the principle of moments (torque), where the product of the weight and its distance from the fulcrum on one side equals the product of the counterweight and its distance on the other.
Variants and Related Words
- Lever scale (n): A general term for scales operating on the lever principle, including the steelyard.
- Balance (n): A broader term for an instrument used for weighing.
- Roman balance (n): Another name for a steelyard, referencing its ancient Roman use.
Synonyms
- Beam scale: A scale with a horizontal beam, though this often implies a two-pan balance with equal arms.
- Portable balance: Emphasizes its easy transportability.
Related Phrases
- To weigh with a steelyard: The action of using this specific device.
- Traders would often weigh goods with a steelyard.
Noun
-
a portable balance consisting of a pivoted bar with arms of unequal length
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