Found 2 items, similar to abaci.
English → English (WordNet) Definition: abaci abaci See abacus abacus n 1: a tablet placed horizontally on top of the capital of a column as an aid in supporting the architrave 2: a calculator that performs arithmetic functions by manually sliding counters on rods or in grooves [also: abaci (pl)]
English → English (gcide) Definition: Abaci Abacus \Ab"a*cus\ ([a^]b"[.a]*k[u^]s), n.; E. pl. Abacuses; L. pl. Abaci (-s[imac]). [L. abacus, abax, Gr. 'a`bax] 1. A table or tray strewn with sand, anciently used for drawing, calculating, etc. [Obs.] [1913 Webster] 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. [1913 Webster] 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. [1913 Webster] 4. A board, tray, or table, divided into perforated compartments, for holding cups, bottles, or the like; a kind of cupboard, buffet, or sideboard. [1913 Webster] Abacus harmonicus (Mus.), an ancient diagram showing the structure and disposition of the keys of an instrument. --Crabb. [1913 Webster]