pantograph

Meanings

Noun

• A mechanical linkage based on parallelograms causing two objects to move in parallel; notably as a drawing aid.
• By extension, a structure of crosswise bars linked in such a way that it can extend and compress like an accordion, such as in a pantograph mirror or a scissor lift.
• A pattern printed on a document to reduce the ease of photocopying.
• A similarly-formed conductive device, now usually Z-shaped, that collects electric current from overhead lines for trains and trams.

Verb

• To engrave by means of a pantograph (parallel linkage) system.

Origin

• From French pantographe, from panto- (from Ancient Greek παντός, genitive singular of πᾶν), and -graphe (from γράφειν)