water clock
Definition
Noun: A water clock is a timekeeping device that measures the passage of time by the regulated flow of water into or out of a vessel. The amount of water that has flowed indicates the elapsed time.
Usage
The term "water clock" is used to refer to this specific historical instrument. It is a compound noun. * Ancient civilizations used a water clock to tell time at night. * The museum has an exhibit on ancient timepieces, including a reconstructed water clock. * The principle of the water clock is based on a constant flow rate.
Advanced Usage
- Historical Context: Water clocks, also known as clepsydrae, were among the earliest timekeeping devices not dependent on celestial observation. They were crucial for timing speeches in ancient courts or for use in astronomy.
- The philosopher used a water clock to limit the length of his students' debates.
Variants and Related Words
- Clepsydra (noun): The scientific or historical name for a water clock, derived from Greek words meaning "water thief."
- The clepsydra was more accurate than early sundials.
Synonyms
- Clepsydra (noun): The direct synonym.
- Timepiece (noun): A general term for any instrument that measures time.
- Horologe (noun): An archaic term for any time-measuring instrument.
Related Phrases
- Water clock mechanism: Refers to the internal working parts of the device.
- The complexity of the water clock mechanism varied greatly across cultures.
Noun
-
clock that measures time by the escape of water
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