abacus Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a tablet placed horizontally on top of the capital of a column as an aid in supporting the architrave
  2. noun a calculator that performs arithmetic functions by manually sliding counters on rods or in grooves

WordNet

Ab"a*cus noun
Etymology
L. abacus, abax, Gr.
Wordforms
plural Abacuses ; L plural Abaci
Definitions
  1. A table or tray strewn with sand, anciently used for drawing, calculating, etc. Obs.
  2. A calculating table or frame; an instrument for performing arithmetical calculations by balls sliding on wires, or counters in grooves, the lowest line representing units, the second line, tens, etc. It is still employed in China.
  3. (Arch.) (a) The uppermost member or division of the capital of a column, immediately under the architrave. See Column. (b) A tablet, panel, or compartment in ornamented or mosaic work.
  4. A board, tray, or table, divided into perforated compartments, for holding cups, bottles, or the like; a kind of cupboard, buffet, or sideboard. Crabb.

Webster 1913