ADD MACHINE Meaning and
Definition
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An add machine refers to a mechanical or electronic device designed for performing basic arithmetic operations, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. It is typically used in business, accounting, and banking sectors for processing financial transactions, bookkeeping, or calculations that involve numbers.
The add machine was initially developed in the late 19th century as a mechanical device, featuring a series of keys or buttons representing numbers and operation functions. It allowed users to input numerical values by pressing the corresponding keys, which triggered internal mechanisms to perform the given operations. The results were then displayed on a mechanical wheel or dial. Over time, add machines evolved in terms of design and functionality to enhance speed, accuracy, and ease of use.
With advancements in technology, add machines transitioned into electronic devices in the mid-20th century. These electronic add machines utilized integrated circuits and digital displays to provide faster and more precise calculations. Some models also incorporated additional features like the ability to store and recall calculations or print out results.
The use of add machines significantly reduced human error and improved efficiency in performing mathematical operations, particularly in scenarios that involved repetitive calculations or large sets of figures. However, with the progression of technology, such machines became obsolete, replaced by more advanced calculators, computers, or software applications capable of performing complex mathematical tasks with higher accuracy and versatility.
Etymology of ADD MACHINE
The word "add machine" is a compound noun that combines the words "add" and "machine".
The word "add" comes from the Latin word "addere", which means "to give or join to". It has been used in English since the late 14th century to denote the action of combining numbers or quantities to find their total.
The word "machine" comes from the Latin word "machina", which means "a contrivance or device". It entered English in the early 17th century and refers to any mechanical or electrical device that performs a specific task or function.
When combined, the term "add machine" refers to a mechanical or electronic device used for performing addition calculations. This term became commonly used in the late 19th and early 20th centuries with the rise of mechanical calculators and later electronic calculators.
